Duties of a Lighthouse Keeper

Lighthouse keepers (lightkeepers) maintain and operate lighthouses to ensure maritime safety. Core responsibilities:

• Maintain the light: Check light source, lenses, reflectors; adjust intensity/range.
• Monitor navigation aids: Inspect buoys, beacons, fog signals; report damage.
• Record keeping: Log weather, visibility, equipment status, incidents.
• Report weather: Many serve as remote weather stations.
• General maintenance: Clean, service machinery, paint, manage grounds.
• Emergency response: Signal ships, contact coast guard during incidents.
• Visitor interaction: Guide tours if lighthouse is open to public.

Automation has reduced the need for resident keepers, but their historic role remains iconic.