Brought to you by WBIW News and Network Indiana
Last updated on Thursday, May 21, 2015
(UNDATED) - A new program involving the Indiana Department of Natural Resources aims to reduce drownings at Great Lakes beaches through a public awareness campaign and the distribution of new safety equipment.
"Be Current Smart" is funded by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Project partners included the DNR Lake Michigan Coastal Program and other state coastal management programs, the Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant (IISG), the National Weather Service, and Sea Grant programs in Minnesota and Ohio.
The program emphasizes taking simple steps to ensure a fun, safe day in the water.
"Lake Michigan offers a lot of great recreational opportunities, but it is important to remember that high waves, structures and currents can create hazardous conditions," said Leslie Dorworth, an aquatic ecology specialist with IISG.
Since 2002, dangerous currents have killed more than 140 swimmers across the Great Lakes, with 82 fatalities in Lake Michigan alone. The currents are common near river mouths, along piers and breakwaters, and in high waves.
Swimmers are encouraged not to jump off structures or enter the water when waves are high. If caught in a rip current, the best means of escape is to swim out at an angle and back to shore. And parents are reminded to keep a close eye on children while they're in the water.
More information, including videos, instructional animations and various resources for communities, educators, park staff and media is at currentsmart.org.
Through "Be Current Smart," the Lake Michigan Coastal Management Program in Indiana and the Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant have distributed beach safety equipment to Michigan City, Whiting, Beverly Shores and Indiana Dunes State Park.
Local officials collaborated to tailor the equipment to meet community needs. Equipment includes U.S. Coast Guard-approved ring buoys, life jackets, throw bags and more.
Some communities plan to build equipment stands for the gear, making it available for anyone to access and use in an emergency.
"It is great to see the coastal communities come together on this issue to make our shoreline safer," said Mike Molar, director of the DNR Lake Michigan Costal Management Program.
Currentsmart.org also includes a link to a National Weather Service website, with advisories on when and where it is unsafe to swim. Launching this summer, the Great Lakes Beach Hazards page shows a snapshot of forecasted swim risks and beach conditions throughout the region and highlights areas where a Beach Hazard Statement is in effect.
To learn more about Great Lakes currents, visit dangerouscurrents.org.
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