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Michigan City presents beach-safety program, lifeguard mock rescue and free swim lessons
Summary
Organizers at Washington Park Beach demonstrated rescue procedures, urged vigilance against sandbars and rip currents, and promoted YMCA swim lessons and lifeguard certification to reduce drowning risk among visitors and children.
Terry Gream, director of special events for the City of Michigan City, opened a public beach-safety program at Washington Park Beach, outlining common lake hazards and the event’s goals. "But there are some hidden dangers here in Lake Michigan that people need to be aware of," Gream said, citing sandbars and rip currents as primary risks.
Drew White, director of operations at Exosport County, reinforced the safety message and praised local lifeguards and first responders. "Lake Michigan is dangerous to even the most experienced swimmers. We encourage you to abide by the flags—green for safest, yellow for caution and red for no swimming," White said, noting the program was being shared on Comcast channel 97, Facebook and YouTube to reach a wider audience.
Organizers ran a demonstration table with safety items and consumer tips. Presenters recommended US Coast Guard–approved life jackets for children rather than unsecured floaties, showed inflatable swim buoys and wrist lights to help caregivers locate swimmers, and urged simple preparations such as bringing a first-aid kit, sunscreen, hats and plenty of water. They named common retail sources for life jackets and flotation devices and reminded attendees that fit and Coast Guard approval matter.
Will Mccoral, aquatic director at the Leaport County Family YMCA, described the YMCA’s swim programs and training opportunities: "Every month we provide swim lessons in three- to four-week sessions… and we also provide lifeguard certifications for ages 15 and up," Mccoral said, adding that classes run at the Michigan City and Leaport branches.
Presenters repeatedly taught the recommended response for someone caught in a rip current: flip onto your back, float and follow the current out until you can swim parallel to shore and then return. Demonstrators and event leaders also advised attendees to designate a watcher for groups with children, choose a swim buddy and check posted signs and weather services before entering the water.
The event included a mock rescue to show coordinated lifeguard procedures and equipment in action; organizers asked beachgoers to keep a clear path in front of the lifeguard stand during the drill. Organizers closed by thanking partner groups—including the Michigan City Piranhas swim team, the Leaport County Family YMCA and the Michigan City Fire Department—and inviting attendees to visit information tables and speak with instructors.
