If you’re at the Scarborough State Beach this summer, you may see their newest lifeguard in training, Beacon the Newfie. Newfies are bred to aid with water rescues, and Beacon’s job will eventually be to help Maine state lifeguards tow in people on floatation devices during rescues. Not to brag, but I will, Beacon isn’t the only canine lifeguard in Maine. Back in the day, Asa and I also enjoyed being lifeguards one summer. Emphasis on one, because our career rescuing people only lasted one day. To fully appreciate the dramatic tale I’m about to share, please hum the theme song from Baywatch while you read this blog post from 2015.

Billywatch (July 24, 2015)

After teaching Asa to swim, he proved that he was ready to put his skills to good use.  So I decided we should be lifeguards!  I began by carefully surveying the waters for victims who would need our help.  It was only a matter of minutes before we spotted Dad in the water and jumped into action!

Diving off the dock, we headed straight towards Dad.  Oddly enough he didn’t know he was in trouble and needed our help.  Not to be deterred though, Asa and I immediately sprang into action.  We carefully each grabbed hold of his life jacket and swam it back safely to shore.

Unfortunately though Asa wasn’t paying attention, and it wasn’t until we reached the shore that I realized Dad wasn’t in the life jacket!  What do I tell Mom?!  Good thing she was distracted with a book, and by the time we realized our mistake Dad was safely on solid ground toweling off.  Another successful rescue by Billywatch!  “I’ll be ready…Don’t you fear…Forever and always, I’m always here!”  That’s the Golden Way!