After two drownings in Lake Michigan in recent weeks, some are calling for a better warning system when beach conditions are dangerous.
The Muskegon Chronicle's Lisha Arino reports on an idea being proposed from Hugh and Kathleen Kallen.
The couple was moved to develop a new approach after 15-year-old Raybeon Jenkins drowned in the waters off Pere Marquette Park.
Not long after the incident, it moved them to do something to help prevent another drowning. Their plan: create yard signs that would notify beachgoers of dangerous swimming conditions. "We wanted to do something for the next rip current day because there aren't any warnings posted on the severe days," said Kathleen.
The couple wants residents to put up yard signs, similar to political yard signs, on days when hazardous conditions are predicted.
There are permanent signs warning visitors of possible dangerous waters, but nothing to indicate current conditions.
Ocean communities work with beach flag warning systems. The International Life Saving Federation has a document showing the standards for this flag warning system.
