Wenham Police Offer Beach Safety Tips Ahead of Holiday Weekend

Wenham Police Chief Thomas Perkins would like to remind residents who plan to relax at the beach, especially for the Fourth of July weekend, to please take safety precautions.

For the first time in many years, Wenham has staffed their town beach with lifeguards. Pleasant Pond is a 43-acre body of water located about three-quarters of a mile west of Route 1A on the Wenham-Hamilton town line.

Parking at the beach is by permit only for Wenham and Hamilton residents. Permits are available at the police station or the Town Hall. The beach is open from 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

>>>> Here’s how to get your parking sticker.

“We want all of our residents to be able to enjoy the holiday weekend this year,” Chief Perkins said. “In order to enjoy the Fourth responsibly, we are asking the public to please consider these tips so everyone can have fun in a safe environment.”

Most importantly, the Wenham Police Department urges those heading to the beach to be aware of sudden changes in weather, especially during a thunderstorm. The Massachusetts Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs reports that an estimated 58 people are killed each year by lightening strikes. It is dangerous to be on the beach during a thunderstorm, even when out of the water.

The Wenham Police Department also reminds citizens to:

• Remain in areas where there is a lifeguard, who will be able to quickly respond if there is an emergency or call for distress.
• Always keep an eye on children, especially when they are in or by the water
• Drink plenty of water and reapply sunscreen every two hours to avoid dehydration or sunstroke.