Keeping safe on, in Michigan waters

CADILLAC - Once the weather starts cooperating, people will be spending time on the many bodies of water in northern Michigan.

With groups of people and families enjoying those waters, safety should always be a chief concern.

Cadillac Police Sgt. Todd Golnick, who holds a dive certification and is a member of the Wexford-Cadillac Dive Team, said when swimming, people should be aware of the various hazards present.

In a river, the undercurrent is capable of pulling a person underwater. Plus, rivers are murky making it difficult to see boulders, logs or drop-offs.

"Some people have a tendency to underestimate the power of that rushing water," Golnick said.

In lakes, especially ones that see recreational boat traffic, Golnick said it is important to stay away from heavily trafficked areas because it can be difficult to see a swimmer.

When swimming in deep waters, Golnick said it is important to know a person's physical limits.

If a swimmer wishes to test his or her physical limits, Golnick said to swim within sight of another person or use a personal flotation device.

"The No. 1 reason people get in trouble in the water is failure to use PFDs and the consumption of alcohol," Golnick said. "Never in 21 years of doing this have I had to retrieve a deceased person who was wearing or utilizing a PFD."

When supervising children, Golnick said it is key to pay attention to what they are doing.

"It's when the parent turns their attention away for just that moment that something bad can happen," he said.

Mark Miltner, owner of a canoe livery in Wellston, said safety should always be taken seriously before anyone spends time on area rivers.

Prior to sending anyone on the Pine or Big Manistee rivers, Miltner said he makes sure people can handle it from a physical standpoint and that they know what to do when they're in the water.

"We encourage the use of life vests, not just cushions," Miltner said. "We also discourage the use of alcohol."

One of the biggest safety measures Miltner takes is to make sure people are capable of handling a river. If not, he said he is willing to direct them to easier bodies of water.

When planning a canoeing trip or other adventure on an area river, Miltner said people should always ask for advice from experts on the condition of the river and how to stay safe.

news@cadillacnews.com | 775-NEWS (6397)