Michigan Water Safety: Staying Safe on Michigan’s Great Lakes

Michigan is famous for having lots of beautiful waterways all over the state. From the huge Great Lakes that border our state, to the many smaller lakes, rivers, and streams, Michigan has endless water resources for people to enjoy. These natural water areas provide great opportunities for fun, relaxation, and adventure.

About Michigan Water Safety

I was raised spending my summers on Lake Huron, and my parents instilled water safety and a healthy respect for the power of the water at a young age. However, as I grew up and met folks who were not familiar with our lakes and rivers, it quickly became apparent that not everyone understands the importance of water safety.

Our beautiful waterways come with some risks that need to be understood and dealt with. This is important to keep both Michigan residents and visitors safe when they are out on the water. According to the Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project, more than 1,155 people have drowned in the Great Lakes since 2010.

Why Learn Water Safety?

Each year, Michigan sees far too many tragic water-related incidents, including drownings, boating accidents, and other emergencies. These incidents are often preventable, but require a proactive and comprehensive approach to water safety education and awareness.

Michigan’s Great Lakes can be deceiving. While the clear, blue waters are beautiful and refreshing; they can also be deadly. This webpage aims to be a resource for Michiganders and those visiting our state, providing information on the importance of water safety.

Overview of Common Water-related Activities and Hazards

Michigan’s waters support a wide range of recreational activities, each with their own unique safety considerations.

Boating Safety

Boating, whether on a motorized vessel, sailboat, or personal watercraft, is an immensely popular pastime, but requires adherence to navigational rules and the proper use of safety equipment like life jackets.

Swimming Safety

Swimming is a beloved summer activity, but can be dangerous because of hidden currents, sudden drop-offs, and unpredictable waves. Even simpler things like fishing and wading in the water can pose risks, especially in cold or fast-moving water.

Seasonal Water Hazards: Ice and Algae

Seasonal hazards such as icy conditions in the winter and dangerous algal blooms in the summer further complicate the water safety landscape in Michigan. Understanding these various risks and how to mitigate them is crucial for ensuring the well-being of both residents and visitors alike.

Drowning Prevention

Understanding Drowning Risks in Michigan

Drowning is a serious problem in Michigan, especially during the summer months when more people are out enjoying the water. In fact, Michigan is one of the states with the highest rates of drowning in the United States. Drowning can happen very quickly and quietly, often without a lot of splashing or yelling for help.

Some of the main reasons why drowning is a big risk in Michigan include:

• The Great Lakes have cold water that can make it hard to swim, even for strong swimmers.
• There are a lot of steep drop-offs and hidden underwater hazards in many lakes and rivers.
• Many people don’t know how to identify and avoid dangerous currents and waves.
• A lot of drowning incidents happen when people aren’t wearing life jackets.

Promoting the Use of Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)

One of the best ways to prevent drowning is by always wearing a life jacket, also called a personal flotation device (PFD). PFDs can keep you afloat and give you time to get help if you end up in the water unexpectedly. They come in different sizes and styles for adults and children.

Michigan law requires that everyone on a boat must have a properly fitted PFD nearby. But it’s a good idea to wear one anytime you’re in, on, or near the water, even if you’re just wading or fishing. PFDs can save lives, so make sure to always use them.

EXPERT TIP: Please be aware that plastic float toys should not be mistaken for PDF’s. These “floats” can be easily moved by winds, waves and currents, carrying passengers into deep water quickly. The can easily puncture and lose air, and are not life-saving devices.

Dangers of Rip Currents and Dangerous Waves

Another major drowning risk in Michigan is from strong currents and waves. Rip currents are fast-moving channels of water that can quickly pull swimmers away from the shore. Dangerous waves, especially on the Great Lakes, can suddenly become huge and powerful, knocking people down and making it hard to get back to land.

It’s important to learn how to identify rip currents and dangerous waves, and to know what to do if you get caught in them. If you ever feel yourself being pulled away from shore, don’t try to swim against the current. Instead, swim parallel to the shore until you’re out of the current, then swim back to land.

By understanding the drowning risks in Michigan and taking steps like wearing life jackets and being aware of currents and waves, we can all help keep ourselves and our loved ones safe in the water.

Swimming and Beach Safety

Tips for Safe Swimming in Michigan’s Lakes and Rivers

Swimming in Michigan’s lakes and rivers can be a lot of fun, but it’s important to be safe. Here are some tips for safe swimming:

• Only swim in designated swim areas that are free of hazards like rocks, ledges, and strong currents.
• Avoid swimming alone – always have a buddy or group with you.
• Don’t jump or dive into water unless you know for sure it’s deep enough.
• Pay attention to any warning signs or flags that indicate dangerous conditions.
• Avoid swimming in cold water, as it can quickly sap your strength.

Awareness of Cold Water Shock and Hypothermia

The Great Lakes and many Michigan rivers have very cold water, even in the summer. Sudden exposure to this cold water can cause a condition called “cold water shock” that makes it hard to breathe and swim. The cold water can also lead to hypothermia, where your body temperature drops dangerously low.

To stay safe, wear a life jacket if you’ll be in cold water. Avoid going in over your head, and get out of the water right away if you start to feel cold or have trouble moving your arms and legs.

Precautions for Beach Activities

Spending a day at the beach is a classic Michigan summer activity. But there are some important safety things to keep in mind:

• Check for and obey any warning flags or signs about dangerous conditions like rip currents.
• Always supervise children closely, even in shallow water.
• Apply plenty of sunscreen and wear a hat to protect from the sun’s UV rays.
• Avoid going in the water if a thunderstorm is approaching.

By following these tips for safe swimming, being aware of cold water risks, and taking precautions at the beach, you can enjoy Michigan’s beautiful waterways while keeping yourself and your loved ones out of harm’s way.

National Weather Service Great Lakes Beach Hazards

Always check the National Weather Service Great Lakes Beach Hazards website. The site shares important information such as beach forecasts and beach hazards, which can change throughout the day depending on the weather.

Educate Yourself on Water Safety

Please note that this post is in no way a comprehensive guide to lifesaving, but a guide to highlight the importance of caution when swimming in Michigan’s waterways.

The Great Lakes Water Safety Consortium and the Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project provide vital information on water safety. Visit their sites to learn how to SAFELY enjoy the Great Lakes.