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.
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.
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 and 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.
Whether located on the Great Lakes or inland, swim buoys help mark the boundaries of a swim area. DNR staff inspects these areas approximately every two weeks and adjusts them as needed to maximize safety. Swim areas are established to identify locations with:
Please note: due to high winds, waves and rapidly changing water temperatures during the off-season, buoys are typically installed prior to the Memorial Day holiday weekend and are removed after Labor Day. On-shore rescue equipment, the flag system (Great Lakes only) and safety signage will remain along those sections of shoreline through at least Oct. 1. Once the buoys are removed, the area is no longer considered a swim area. While the beach remains open to the public, swimming is not recommended.
In the Great Lakes, swimmers are most likely to encounter one of five common currents:
FLIP OVER ONTO YOUR BACK AND FLOAT
FLOAT:
FOLLOW: Follow the safest path to safety / out of the water.
Piers create furiously strong underwater currents. The currents are called structural currents and can be found alongside structures, such as piers and breakwalls. When paired with others longshore or rip currents, the combination can create a washing machine effect, moving swimmers from one dangerous current area to another with no clear path to safety.
