With warmer weather on the way, many will soon take to Lake Huron to swim, boat and fish. However, as one of the Great Lakes, Lake Huron is capable of many things— rip and structural currents, high waves and other dangers– that can threaten even the most experienced swimmer.
Sanilac County citizen Don King can attest to that firsthand, having helped with a water rescue at Port Sanilac’s break wall in August 2024, which saw at least three people struggling against the lake’s riptide and high waves.
While King has contacted local officials and authorities to talk about making the lake safer, proposing the “submission of legislation to require all piers/ breakwalls… to have 1 PFD (Personal Flotation Device) at a minimum of 100 foot spacing,” the state of Michigan urges those heading to the water to learn how to escape a current, and employ other safety measures while at the shore.
To escape a current, experts recommend flipping on your back to keep your head above water, floating to conserve your energy, and following the current to the safest path out of the water. Try not to panic or fight the current; instead, swim perpendicular to the current’s flow. If you’re too tired to swim, try to keep floating and signal for help.
It is also recommended that one never swims alone, with close watch being kept on any accompanying children. The state recommends bringing U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets with you, and if you must go in the water to help someone struggling, please wear a life jacket yourself.
While King did discuss possible legislation with Representative Greg Alexander of the 98th District, the representative and his office have not been able to move forward with the idea, as further research is needed. Possible funding is also being looked into by the representative’s office, but there is no concrete plan for the possible legislation as of yet.
