Six guarded beaches recently had wooden lifeguard towers replaced with white fiberglass towers, including Anahola, Ha'ena, Hanalei (Pine Trees), Ke'e, Kekaha and Salt Pond.

The county began phasing out the old towers last year, starting with Hanalei (pavilion), Kealia, Lydgate and Po'ipu beaches. Now all county beaches have modern lifeguard towers.

"The towers are subjected to the harsh elements and need to be replaced periodically," said Kaua'i Fire Chief Robert Westerman. "I think our lifeguards are pleased with having more efficient workstations to support their efforts to safeguard our beaches and respond to emergencies."

The new towers are twice as large as the old ones, allowing more room to comfortably fit two lifeguards, and are built with decks that go completely around them, tinted windows and special ventilation features.