PORT HURON (WWJ) - The U.S. Coast Guard is reminding Michiganders to be safe on the Great Lakes ahead of the holiday weekend after two people were rescued from Lake Huron on Thursday.
The Ninth Coast Guard District, who is responsible for all USCG operations throughout the five Great Lakes, the Saint Lawrence Seaway and parts of the surrounding states, revealed the rescue on their Twitter account around 8:20 p.m. on June 30th with a warning to those getting ready to gear up their Fourth of July plans on Michigan's waterways.
Officials said a small response boat crew embarked from Coast Guard Station Port Huron, on west bank of the entrance to the St. Clair River, and located two people on inner tubes that had drifted out into Lake Huron.
According to the USCG, the tubers did not have lifejackets on.
"Remember, the Great Lakes can change fast - be alert for changing wind conditions and always wear [a lifejacket]," the coast guard advised on social media.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Great Lakes pose many dangers, but the most common causes of dangerous situations are:
• Short period wind waves
• Longshore currents
• Structural currents
• Classic rip currents
• Outlet currents
• Channel currents
NOAA officials echoed the advice from the USCG, stating that the most important step swimmers and boaters can do to stay safe on the Lakes is to stay aware and alert.
"Before entering the water, talk with a lifeguard or beach patrol. No one will know the current water conditions better than they will," NOAA advised. "If you are at an unguarded beach, which most are, Steer Clear of the Pier, if one is present. Swim at least 100 yards away from the structure. Also, remember if you see whitewater waves are at least 3 feet and dangerous currents may be present. The waves alone pose a danger as well."
Authorities also strongly encouraged everyone out on the water to stay current on weather conditions and have a way to receive alerts as potential hazards can pop up unexpectedly.
Beach goers can prepare for their day on the Lakes by following these tips:
• Before leaving for the beach check the official forecast.
• Arrive knowing the local weather forecast.
• Look to see if there are statements regarding waves, dangerous currents, or other drowning hazards.
• Be prepared by having United States Coast Guard approved life jackets, as well as flotation devices like a boat flotation cushion with you.
• Know the address of the beach should you need to call for help, as well as the location of the life stations on the beach equipped with life rings that could be thrown to someone in trouble.
"Always remember: if you want to stay safe at the beach, respect the power of the Lake," officials said.