Should NJ extend lifeguard duty through October?

"Local summer" is beloved by many Jersey Shore residents, but imagine what a few more months of tourism could do for the state.

Check out the video below to hear why I think we should extend the beach-going season and lifeguard duty through October 1.

Mark, who called in from the Parkway, said he would love to see lifeguard coverage extended. According to him, summer is still here, but last week much of Island Beach State Park was closed or unmanned.

Mary, another caller from the Parkway, pointed out that most lifeguards are college kids who return to school in late August or early September, so it would be difficult to keep a crew on the beach.

Do you think New Jersey should have lifeguards on duty past Labor Day Weekend? Take the poll and comment below to share your opinion, and tweet your local summer photos to @BillSpadea and @nj1015.

Bill Spadea is creator of the Chasing News TV program. He periodically fills in for NJ 101.5 show hosts, and you can daily hear his opinion about all things New Jersey here, or by tweeting @BillSpadea.