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Enjoy the Outdoors Safely
Michigan is known for its water features – that’s why a lot of people live here or visit in the first place. Playing in the water, spending time at the beach, and cruising on a boat are all enjoyable things to do during the summer months, but it’s important to do so safely. The Michigan DNR has published information regarding boat and water safety.
From the Michigan DNR: All designated state park swim areas (in addition to many others) located on the Great Lakes use a beach flag warning system: Check the flag upon arrival and be sure to monitor it throughout the day as conditions can change very quickly. Only state park beaches are guaranteed to have a flag system at designated swim areas. Be aware that current high-water conditions can cause stronger currents, especially around river outlets and piers.
Red Flag = STOP
Stay on the beach, do not enter the water and do not swim.
Yellow Flag = CAUTION
Green Flag = GO
Enter the water, but stay aware of changing conditions.
ADDITIONAL SAFETY FEATURES & TIPS
• There are buoys marking the swim area: Buoys are present at all state park beaches in addition to most other public and private beaches. Swim only in designated buoyed swim areas and never jump off or swim near piers. Currents found near piers are extremely dangerous.
• All state park swim beaches have a lifesaving flotation device: Lifesaving devices are available at
all state park beaches in addition to many other public beaches. If you see someone in trouble, call for help and throw the lifesaving device or anything else that floats. Avoid entering the water if possible and if you must go, wear a life jacket – it can save you and the person in trouble.
• Never swim alone: Be sure someone else is with you in case of an emergency.
• Keep close watch of children: Stay within arm’s reach and have them wear a lifejacket.
• Before you go, visit current Great Lakes swim risk levels at weather.gov/greatlakes/beachhazards (National Weather Service).
CURRENTS AND HOW TO
ESCAPE FROM THEM
Types of Currents
In the Great Lakes, swimmers are most likely to encounter one of five common currents:
• Rip currents
• Structural currents
• Channel currents
• Longshore currents
• Outlet currents (river channel)
Watch for dangerous currents and high waves.
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MichiganRVandCampgrounds.org