GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. - Whether it's the warm weather, the school year ending or Memorial Day weekend, there are a lot of reasons to enjoy any of the 11,000 inland lakes or 36,000 miles of rivers and streams in Michigan.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is offering tips for those who will be on the water during National Safe Boating Week from May 18-24.
The DNR reminds boaters to keep these safety tips in mind before they float:
- Wear a life jacket – accidents happen. In 2017, the U.S. Coast Guard reported that drowning was the cause of death in 76 percent of all boating accident fatalities. Last July, when two people were stranded in Lake Huron after falling off their personal watercraft, their life jackets kept them afloat in the rough water until a conservation officer arrived to help. Take the time now to learn more about Michigan’s life jacket rules.
- Boat sober Alcohol is the leading known contributing factor in fatal boating accidents.
- Stay alert. Be aware of objects and other people – including stationed anglers, swimmers, boaters, kayakers and paddleboarders – in the water. Keep your eyes open for debris, such as commercial fishing nets, which sometimes break free and float at the surface of the water.
- Check your boat before you float. In October, a man was rescued from Lake Gogebic after the steering on his boat became inoperable. He was able to call for help and wore his life jacket until a conservation officer arrived. Make sure your boat is in good operating condition and equipped with the appropriate life jackets, fire extinguisher and first aid equipment before heading onto the water.
- Take a cellphone in a waterproof case or a marine radio. In March, a capsized kayaker on Lake Erie was rescued because he was able to call for help.
- Know how to escape a current. Being aware of the Great Lakes swim risk levels and the beach warning flag system can help swimmers avoid dangerous currents. Understanding how to “flip, float and follow” while swimming can help in case you get stuck in a strong current.
For more information, visit the DNR's boating safety website.
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