Just How Dangerous Is It To Swim In The Great Lakes?

Great Lakes waters could be more dangerous for swimmers than you think

According to npr, the currents in the Great Lakes are very different from ocean currents and the main culprit, the wind.

The waves come more frequently in the Great Lakes. They typically last three to five seconds, while in the ocean, waves last about 10 seconds or longer. And while the waves may look similar, they combine with the wind to produce dangerous currents.

If you've ever been pulled under water from a rip current, you understand how powerful they are.  I was able to resurface and swim back to shore but some aren't as fortunate.

According to the Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project, 69 people have died in those waters so far this year, already surpassing the 55 total deaths from 2015.

In an effort to prevent drownings, red flags and signs are posted along beaches to warn people when it's not safe to enter the water.  But, there aren't lifeguards working at most of the beaches making it easier for swimmers to ignore the warnings.

And while advocating safe swimming on the Great Lakes remains a challenge, officials at the Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project, U.S. Lifesaving Association and other organizations continue to push for lifeguards at every beach.

If you have questions about water safety, contact the Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project website.