{"id":8480,"date":"2023-11-19T02:05:03","date_gmt":"2023-11-19T01:05:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.lakebeyond.com\/?p=8480"},"modified":"2023-11-19T02:05:03","modified_gmt":"2023-11-19T01:05:03","slug":"how-many-people-die-in-lake-michigan","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.lakebeyond.com\/how-many-people-die-in-lake-michigan\/","title":{"rendered":"How Many People Die In Lake Michigan"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Overview of Lake Michigan<\/h2>\n

Lake Michigan is one of the five Great Lakes of North America and is located between the United States and Canada. It is the second largest lake, and the only lake wholly within the United States. On an average day, the lake’s surface covers 22,404 square miles and contains 1,180 cubic miles of water. This is enough water to provide drinking water for every person in the US and Canada.
\nThe lake is relatively shallow, with an average depth of only 279 feet. Its shoreline is also incredibly diverse and has different types of geological features, such as sand dunes and beach ridges. Because of its size and location, Lake Michigan is an important economic resource for the countries it borders.<\/p>\n

Shocking Statistics<\/h2>\n

Every year, hundreds of people die in Lake Michigan and the surrounding areas. The majority of these deaths are due to recreational activities like boating and swimming. According to research, there were an average of 37 fatalities in Lake Michigan each year from 1990 to 2018. However, the number of deaths increased by an astonishing 33% in 2019, with a total of 49 fatalities that year.
\nMost people drown when they are not wearing a life jacket. Unfortunately, this is the leading cause of death among those who die in the lake. Additionally, swimming under the influence of alcohol or drugs often increases the risk of drowning. There is also the risk of hypothermia, which is the second leading cause of death in the lake.<\/p>\n

Preventive Measures<\/h2>\n

In an effort to reduce the number of fatalities in Lake Michigan, various preventive measures have been implemented. First, the U.S. Coast Guard trains local law enforcement officers to watch for unsafe boating practices. These include improper boat operation and lack of life jackets. These officers also monitor the lake for any signs of distress, including overturned boats and missing persons.
\nSecond, most states in the lake’s vicinity have laws that require boat operators to wear life jackets. In addition, some states have set up lake safety courses and safety classes that people can attend. These courses educate people on how to act safely when they are near the lake.<\/p>\n

Danger Zones<\/h2>\n

The dangers of Lake Michigan are especially pronounced in certain areas. According to boating experts, the worst areas of the lake are near its outer edges. The reason for this is due to the strong currents and undertows that can be found in these areas. Furthermore, storms and severe weather can quickly increase the risks of these areas.
\nIn addition, the edges of Lake Michigan can be incredibly difficult to navigate. Inexperienced boaters can easily get lost because the lake is so vast and the shoreline is so diverse. To stay safe, boaters should always be familiar with the area they are visiting and carry a navigational aid such as a map or GPS device.<\/p>\n

Effects on Local Communities<\/h2>\n