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Great Lakes water safety

water lapping on sandy lakeshore

Great Lakes water safety

Great Lakes can be dangerous. Keep water and pier safety in mind.

The Great Lakes are large, powerful water systems prone to dangerous currents that can threaten even the most experienced swimmer. Rip and structural currents, high waves and other dangerous currents and wave conditions can occur along beaches, near the outlets of rivers and near structures such as piers and breakwalls.

There are no beach guards (or life guards) at state parks, so never swim alone and always keep a close watch over children. It's especially important to bring U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets, especially for young, new and inexperienced swimmers.

Many state parks, but not all, offer swim areas identified by buoys or markers, a beach flag warning system and water depth less than 5 feet at the time of installation.

Check current swim risk »

Do not enter the water, dangerous conditions. Respect the new law (find info below) that prohibits water access and do not enter the water.

High surf and/or strong currents. It's recommended that you stay on the beach.

Moderate surf and/or currents. Watch for dangerous currents and high waves.

Calm conditions. Enter the water, but exercise caution.

Water access from a beach prohibited when risks are present

If you see double red flags, you are not allowed to enter the water from the beach. Unless otherwise directed, visitors can still enjoy spending time on the beach. Risks can include, but are not limited to:

  • Severe weather events identified by the National Weather Service.
  • Hazardous waves and/or dangerous water conditions present.
  • Active rescue or recovery efforts.
  • Water contamination.
  • Unsafe debris washing ashore.

Closures/limits can also be identified by park signage and/or by verbal communication from DNR parks or law enforcement staff.

An exception is made for surfers using wind-powered or self-propelled wave-riding boards when they enter at their own risk and follow safety rules. Read Land Use Order 5.1.6 for full details.

dangerous currents sign
Flip, Float, Follow diagram
picture of current perpendicular to pier in danger zone