BERRIEN COUNTY, Mich. -- Beach season is nearly in full swing. But before you dive in, there’s a team of people making sure Lake Michigan's waters are safe for swimming.
At Silver Beach, lifeguards undergo daily training and stay in close contact with Berrien County Dispatch, the Coast Guard, and local emergency crews.
On red flag days, lifeguards urge everyone to stay on the sand and off the pier. Rip currents can pull even strong swimmers under, and if the pier is wet, it’s too dangerous to be on.
Lifeguards also run mock rescues and train with Narcan, with support from the health department.
Assistant Park Manager Genevieve Graves says as the summer season approaches, she encourages everyone to stay smart, alert and safe.
"We're very excited for this season. It's going to be a good year. The weather is starting to get a little warmer. We have lots of new ranger staff and a lot of returning lifeguard staff. We're pretty excited and just want to keep everyone safe and have a good, happy summer."
Every week, Berrien County health workers test water from 14 public beaches, stretching from Hagar Township to Michiana Shores, checking for elevated E. coli levels.
Environmental Health Supervisor Brian Murphy says rain is often the biggest trigger. Runoff from storm drains and sanitary sewers can carry bacteria into the lake.
Crews collect samples in bottles and take them to a certified lab, and results come back within 24 hours. Results are posted on Beachguard.
If E. coli levels are high, crews resample daily until levels return to normal, and the advisory can be lifted.
Murphy encourages beachgoers to not swallow lake water, take a shower after swimming and always wash your hands before eating.
"Don't be afraid to come to the beach. There's no reason to fear. As long as you check Beachguard, check our swim advisories. If you go to the beach and it is open, just take the necessary precautions," Murphy said.