Section 250-RICR-100-00-8.12 - Operation of Beaches and Swimming AreasA. All individuals employed as lifeguards at bathing areas within the State of Rhode Island shall hold an active state lifeguard certification card as issued by the Division of Parks and Recreation. Lifeguards holding surf cards may be employed at surf, non-surf bathing areas, or pools. Lifeguards holding non-surf cards shall be employed only at non-surf bathing areas or pools. Lifeguards holding pool certifications shall be employed only at swimming pools. All certification cards are issued annually and valid for one year, as dated, unless extended, suspended, or revoked by the Division of Parks and Recreation.B. All bathing areas shall provide lifeguard equipment and personnel according to the requirements of the Division of Parks and Recreation.C. All lifesaving equipment shall be maintained in good operating condition ready for immediate use.D. All bathing areas shall post conspicuously the hours lifeguard personnel will be on duty.E. A telephone for emergency calls shall be readily accessible from every bathing area. Numbers of police, fire and rescue units of the area shall be posted conspicuously beside any landline.F. No power boats shall be allowed within any bathing and swimming area. The management of each bathing area shall maintain the area free from driftwood and other objects which may cause injury.G. Bathing and swimming areas shall have a state certified lifeguard present in accordance with R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-22.5-11 during posted hours in accordance with § 8.12(D) of this Part.H. Bathing and swimming areas that are open and do not have a lifeguard on duty shall post signage in a conspicuous place advising: 1. "No Lifeguard on Duty - Swim at your own Risk"2. "Individuals under the age of 18 should be accompanied by an adult"3. "Individuals should not swim alone"I. During periods of severe surf, undertow and other emergency conditions the Department shall have the authority to close any and all bathing areas whenever such action is deemed necessary in the interest of public safety. Whenever a bathing area has been closed because of the aforesaid conditions, lifeguards or any designated public safety official shall be retained on the beach to caution prospective bathers against entering the water.J. Annually, the bathing season shall be from the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend until 6:00 p.m. on Labor Day unless the Division of Parks and Recreation gives notice to the contrary.250 R.I. Code R. 250-RICR-100-00-8.12
Adopted effective 6/28/2023