Lifeguards up for discussion in Lake Michigan beach town

SOUTH HAVEN, Mich. (AP) — A popular Lake Michigan beach town has been discussing whether to bring lifeguards back to the waterfront.

The South Haven Beach Safety Committee recently voted against recommending lifeguards or a second line of buoys, said City Manager Kate Hosier.

The committee’s work will be reviewed by the city council in South Haven, 60 miles southwest of Grand Rapids.

Three people drowned in the area last summer and there were 23 rescues. The city stopped using lifeguards in 2001.

“It’s undisputed that lifeguards make a positive impact on beach safety,” committee member Kameron Daugherty said at a May 20 meeting.

Some members said South Haven residents should vote on whether to hire lifeguards.

South Haven uses a flag system to warn people about Lake Michigan conditions. South Haven Area Emergency Services recently bought a drone that can drop a flotation device to swimmers struggling in the water.

Catch more news on Great Lakes Now:

Great Lakes trails become friendlier for users with disabilities

Open Doors: Great Lakes tourist destinations make 2021 a new start

Summertime Spike: Great Lakes parks a source of balm and vexation for many during COVID-19

Drownings Increase: Research shows possible connection between COVID-19 restrictions and Great Lakes drownings

Featured image: South Haven beach (Image from Great Lakes Now Episode 1016)