Lake Michigan Drownings In 2019
In 2019, Lake Michigan in the United States saw far too much tragedy due to drownings. There were a total of 18 drownings in the lake between January and December, 7 of which occurred at beaches along the lake. This is an alarming statistic since it is an increase of 10 drownings compared to the 8 that occurred in the lake during 2018.
Safety experts warn of the danger inherent in swimming in open waters. Dr. David Earnold, a professor of swimming safety at the University of Michigan recommends swimmers wear a personal flotation device when swimming in open water. “A personal flotation device isn’t only for children,” he explains. “Even experienced swimmers can get into difficult situations due to changing weather conditions or strong currents.” Dr. Earnold goes on to explain that basic survival and safety skills are critical when swimming in open water.
What’s even more concerning, however, is that many of the drownings that occurred in Lake Michigan this year, were all preventable. Four of these drownings involved swimmers who did not know how to swim and one involved a swimmer who was intoxicated. Despite the increase in drownings, there were still some bright spots. There were no drownings at beaches, which is a stark contrast to 2018, when five occurred along beaches.
In addition to increasing awareness, local governments and departments of health in Lake Michigan states are taking steps to reduce the number of drownings. Illinois Governor J.B Pritzker signed the Swimming Pool and Spa Safety Act earlier this year. The Act requires all swimming pool and spa owners to register with their local authorities, adhere to safety protocols and take a swimming exam. This would add an extra layer of protection to swimmers in Lake Michigan.
Advancements in technology have also made it easier for authorities to monitor swimmers. In Indiana, there is a lifeguard monitoring system called Lake Guardian. It features video cameras, digital signs, lifeguards and voice warnings to inform swimmers when they are in danger. Other safety measures that have been taken include the creation of swim-in beaches in Wisconsin, the installation of sonar systems to detect swimmers in distress in Michigan and a public education campaign in all four states.
At the end of the day, awareness and education are key to reducing drownings. Educating swimmers, especially those who are inexperienced, on the inherent dangers of swimming, the importance of following basic safety protocols such as always keeping an eye on family and friends, and having a working knowledge of how to swim and how to react in an emergency can make all the difference between life and death.
Safety Preparations Near Lake Michigan
Safety experts recommend preparing for lake swimming before heading out into the water. This includes learning basic swimming skills, taking a swim safety training course and using a personal flotation device (PFD). When laying out safety protocols for swimming in Lake Michigan, it is important to include measures like seeking lifeguards, picking a beach with safe water conditions, wearing brightly colored swim clothing to help others see swimmers, and limiting ice cream and other sugar intake.
While many beaches in Lake Michigan are equipped with lifeguards and safety measures, it is important for swimmers to take their own initiative in assessing their safety. Not all beaches offer the same level of safety. Beach walkers need to consider signs posted at the beach, speak to lifeguards, ask about water conditions and observe any animals or plants that may be a warning sign.
Lifeguards are trained to assess safety conditions and can offer information on the best areas to swim. They can assess risks like riptides and impending storms that indicate where it might be safest to swim. If swimmers cannot be sure adequate safety preparation is in place for their activity, it is suggested to postpone it until it is safe to do so.
Benefits Of Swimming In Lake Michigan
Despite the dangers associated with lake swimming, many people in the Lake Michigan states love to swim in the lake due to its beauty and health benefits. Swimming in Lake Michigan can be a great way to relax, connect with nature and get some exercise. Studies show a single swim can leave a person feeling more alert and noticeably less stressed.
Swimming in Lake Michigan is often more tranquil than a swimming pool and the smells within the water may be calming to anyone who loves swimming in open waters. It also can help people improve their overall fitness level, as it requires stronger muscles than a normal swimming pool. Just like any type of exercise, swimming in the lake can cause muscle soreness but also increase cardiovascular health and strength. Research shows that swimming even one hour in Lake Michigan can help improve sleep and muscle development.
Open waters also offer swimmers a chance to explore and do some wildlife watching. With its varied wildlife, Lake Michigan is home to a number of fish species and other wildlife like turtles, trout and salmon. With shores as far north as Wisconsin and Michigan and as far south as Illinois and Indiana, there are also plenty of amazing sights for swimmers to discover.
Regulations To Follow While Swimming In Lake Michigan
With the increase in drownings in Lake Michigan, there is an even greater need for swimmers to understand and follow regulations. Governments and departments of health in all four Lake Michigan states have set down regulations and guidelines that must be followed when swimming, regardless of skill level or experience. These include following basic safety protocols such as avoiding overcrowded areas, not engaging in risky activities, such as diving and jumping, and not swimming near strong currents.
Swimmers should also abide by the codes and regulations set by the local authorities. These regulations are designed to protect swimmers and minimize the risk of drowning. Swimmers should also be aware of their limitations and not go beyond their depths, and those who are young or inexperienced should always be accompanied by an adult. In addition, all swimmers should leave beach areas clean and show respect for other beachgoers and wildlife.
It is important for swimmers to understand these regulations fully and be aware of their rights while they are in the water. Swimmers can always contact their local authorities for more information on swimming regulations.
The Role Of Technology In Lake Michigan Swimming Safety
In recent years, there have been advancements in technology that have made it easier for authorities to monitor swimmers for safety. This includes the installation of lifeguard monitoring systems, sonar systems and voice warning systems, which are all designed to help reduce the number of drownings. In addition to this, cameras have been installed in beach areas and swim-in beaches have been established in some states. These measures have all helped decrease the number of drownings in Lake Michigan.
In addition to these technological advancements, governments and departments of health have also worked to create public education campaigns in all four Lake Michigan states about swimming safety. This involves educating swimmers on their rights in the water and the importance of following basic safety protocols, as well as teaching swimmers about the risks of swimming in open waters. All of these measures help to reduce the number of drownings in the lake each year.
In addition to these technological and educational measures, swimmers should also practice self-preparedness in order to reduce the risk of drowning. This includes learning basic swimming skills, using a personal flotation device, and seeking lifeguards while swimming in the lake.
Final Considerations For Swimming In Lake Michigan
While there have been a lot of efforts to reduce the number of drownings in Lake Michigan in 2019, the fact remains that tragedies continue to occur. To ensure swimmers can enjoy their time in the water, it is important for them to understand and follow the local regulations put in place by authorities. It also helps to practice self-preparedness and maintain basic knowledge of open-water swimming safety.
The good news is that with the advancements in technology and the increased awareness campaigns, we can have hope that the number of drownings in the lake will decrease in 2020. Swimmers just need to keep in mind the safety protocols and the inherent risks associated with swimming in open waters and practice self-preparedness when heading out into the lake.
