Summertime in Michigan often means a trip to ‘the Lake’ usually meaning one of the Great Lakes.
There have been 37 drownings so far this year in the Great Lakes. But most people don’t know what drowning actually looks like.
“Drowning doesn’t look like drowning,” said Jamie Racklyeft, the founder of the Great Lakes Water Safety Consortium. “We’re used to the Hollywood depiction of a lot of waving and splashing and yelling. When in reality when someone is close to drowning all they can do is try to keep their mouth open above water.”
People actively drowning will often push down on the water and tilt their head back to try to breathe above water.
Racklyeft said if someone is drowning rescuers should try to throw something to help or bring a floatation device if they do have to go out.
“If you’re gonna save someone else, find something that float. Try to throw it to them from the shore or from the pier. If you have to go after them make sure you have a boogie board, a cooler a soccer ball, anything that floats to help keep you safe,” Racklyeft said. “It’s like when you get on the airplane and they say put on your oxygen mask first, before you put on someone else’s. It’s the same principle. Make sure you’re gonna be able to float before you can try to save someone else.”
Racklyeft said some would be rescuers end up being victims themselves. “You have to respect the power of the lake. Especially the Great Lakes.”
If you’re caught in a rip current he says remember flip, float and follow. Flip over and float on your back to conserve energy and follow the current until it releases you and you can swim to shore.
Obeying warning signs, swimming with a life jacket and swimming on a beach with lifeguards are other ways to prevent drowning.