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Swimming, boating, and fishing in Lake Michigan can be lots of fun, but like the ocean, Lake Michigan can be full of hidden dangers. Since 1993, 35 people from Muskegon County have accidentally drown in bathtubs, swimming pools, rivers, and lakes. Nearly 43% of the victims were at the beach, on a pier, or in a boat in Lake Michigan.

Be waterwise by following theses simple safety rules:

Beach Safety

• Never swim alone. Always use the buddy system.
• Always wear a life jacket, especially if you do not know how to swim well.
• Pay attention and obey all posted flag colors and beach signs.
• Stay out of the water on windy and wavy days.
• Learn to swim.
• Other beach safety tips

Boating

• Know the weather forecast before you go out and watch for changes in weather conditions.
• Keep life jackets handy and do not make fun of passengers that want to wear them.
• Tell someone where you are going and how long you plan to be gone.
• Anchor your boat from the bow, not the stern.
• Do not drink and drive.
• Know your boat's load limit and do not exceed it.
• Keep a safe distance from other boats and stay out of swim areas.
• Do not exceed posted speed limits.
• Take a safe boating course.

Pier Safety

• Closely supervise children.
• Life jackets should be worn by young children and non-swimmers.
• Do not dive off of or swim around pier structures.
• Stay off piers during high winds or when waves are washing over.
• Avoid walking on wet and slippery areas.
• Do not get close to the edge.
• Do not run or climb on pier structures.

Additional Information

• Water Safety Recommendations (American Red Cross)
• Rip Currents & Other Great Lakes Water Safety Issues (Great Lakes Water Safety Task Force)
• Finding Swimming Lessons (YMCA)
• Water Safety Education for Kids (Kids Health)
• Accidental Injury Prevention (Safe Kids USA)
• Safe Boating (US Coast Guard)
• Updates on Possible Rip Current Conditions Based on Weather (NOAA, NWS) - Summer Only