The Berrien County Board of Commissioners has honored the lifeguards who help protect the public each day at Silver Beach County Park.

Speaking to commissioners Thursday, Parks Director Jill Adams said the county has a team of about 17 lifeguards who work seven days a week at the beach during the summer months. They’re responsible for preventing accidents by keeping a watchful eye on people enjoying the water, and they interact with visitors all day.

“What I would like to do is emphasize the hundreds of people who visit Silver Beach County Park every day and appreciate the work that you do and I appreciate the work that you do as well,” Adams said.

Of course, Adams said the lifeguards also have to deal with those visitors who are less than cooperative, something they handle with professionalism. She added the lifeguards also help reunite lost children with their families, keep boats out of the swimming area, and educate the public on water conditions and safety.

“I’ve seen this lifeguard team in action and their ability to stay calm under pressure, work as a team, and having the ability to know when to call in the park managers and law enforcement to step in and help really should be commended.”

Adams said the lifeguards really are a true team of employees who support and educate each other.

Many of the county’s lifeguards are college students who do the job when home on break for the summer, and she said because there’s always new ones, the veterans help prepare the new recruits.

July 31 is International Lifeguard Appreciation Day.