The Great Lakes Water Safety Consortium has declared the week around Labor Day, 'Safely Enjoy the Great Lakes Week' and is offering tips for keeping safe in the water this holiday. 

  1. Wear a lifejacket. Just like you wear your seatbelt on the way to the water, wear your lifejacket once you get there. Flotation is key
  2. Know before you go. Check the weather forecast for any warnings at your beach.
  3. Stay dry when waves are high. White water and waves can create rip currents in the big lakes. Enjoy the sand instead of going out
  4. Steer clear of the pier. Record high water levels and waves are washing people off breakwaters at alarming rates
  5. Swim near a watchful adult. Lifeguards are best, but others with flotation should watch kids and be ready to help
  6. Flip, float & follow. If drowning, flip onto your back and float to control panic and conserve energy, then follow the safest path back to shore

Bonus Tip: Leave inflatables at home. Again this year we have seen people on giant unicorns and other inflatables get blown out into the lake by offshore winds and either drowning or having to be rescued. If your inflatable gets away, let it go. If you are caught on an inflatable moving away from shore, signal for help and hold on.

The mission of the nonprofit Great Lakes water safety community is to help people safely enjoy the Great Lakes and has an ultimate vision of ending drowning.