The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection announced changes to its recruitment effort to fill open positions for lifeguards.

The DEEP said it still had lifeguard positions available at several swimming areas across the state earlier this month, including at Sherwood Island State Park.

The state has increased the starting pay for lifeguards to $19 per hour -- up from $16 per an hour, with a salary range of $19 to $21 per hour.

In addition to the increased starting salary, DEEP said it's providing all training required to work as a lifeguard at state park beaches. Training time is paid.

DEEP will be holding a prerequisite swim test for applicants on June 21.