In a summer where lifeguards are at a premium across the United States, the village of Cassadaga can be proud of one of its employees. As noted by Cynthia Flaherty, village trustee, a child was saved after a recent incident at the beach.

“The lifeguards acted just like they were supposed to,” Flaherty said, specifically praising lifeguard Kristin Wise. “The people sitting on the beach didn’t even know what happened. It went flawlessly. Our staff is responsible and did a great job.”

Thank goodness Cassadaga found someone to do the job. Across the nation, many municipalities are dealing with a major shortage of lifeguards that is affecting at least one-third of U.S. swimming pools, according to USA Today and new data from the American Lifeguard Association. The worst part about the lack of safety at our waters — at this time especially — is the heat that is impacting not only this region but areas from Texas to Massachusetts.

Lifeguards are indeed necessary — and in demand. Thank goodness there was a crew in Cassadaga.