MI Updates Beach Warning System With Double Red Flags: Here's What That Means

MICHIGAN — State officials will now use a double red flag at Great Lake beaches to warn swimmers not to go into the water, according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

A single red flag recommends swimmers stay out of the water, the new double red flag requires swimmers to stay out of the water, officials said.

Unless otherwise directed, beachgoers can still enjoy spending time on the beach when double red flags are up, officials said.

"Many people underestimate the power of the Great Lakes and don't always understand how quickly even the most experienced swimmer can get into a life-threatening situation and swept away," State Department of Natural Resources Parks and Recreation Chief Ron Olson said. "That’s why the DNR is committed to making beach safety and public education a top priority."

The new warning system comes as data shows an alarming rise in Great Lake drownings. There were 108 Great Lakes drownings in 2022, and a total of 1,170 since 2010, according to the Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project.

More Ways To Stay Safe

Keep these other cautions in mind when enjoying time in and around the Great Lakes:

• There are no beach guards at state parks, so never swim alone, always keep close watch of children and bring U.S. Coast-Guard-approved life jackets, especially for new and inexperienced swimmers.
• Water currents near piers, breakwalls and outlets of rivers can be extremely hazardous.
• Visitors in areas without designated swim beaches should use extreme caution because they will not have the benefit of the beach flag warning system or the visual cautions of buoys that mark water depth and obstacles.
• Before leaving home for any beach outing, check local weather reports and lake conditions and learn about the types of Great Lakes currents and how to escape them.

Green, yellow, red system

The Great Lakes flag warning system is in place at state-designated swim beaches to advise visitors of current water conditions and any applicable environmental warnings. The updated system now includes:

• Double red flag = water access closed. Do not enter the water; dangerous conditions.
• Red flag = high hazard. High surf and/or strong currents. It's recommended that you stay on the beach.
• Yellow flag = medium hazard. Moderate surf and/or currents. Watch for dangerous currents and high waves.
• Green flag = low hazard. Calm conditions. Enter the water, but exercise caution.