In light of a recent death involving Lake Superior, Northern Michigan University Public Safety is reminding NMU students, faculty and staff to be safe when interacting with the natural environment in and around campus.
“Make yourself prepared for what could happen, not what is happening,” said Deputy Chief Kenneth Love.
On Wednesday, Nov. 5, high winds caused hazardous conditions at Black Rocks in Presque Isle Park, where a 62-year-old Calumet, Mich. man was swept into Lake Superior, according to the Marquette City Police Department. His body was recovered on Nov. 6 in the area of Lakewood Lane in Harvey.
NMU Public Safety, along with several other local agencies, responded to the scene at Presque Isle.
“As you venture out to experience the incredible natural beauty of the Upper Peninsula, always remember that Lake Superior is a powerful, ocean-like environment that demands our absolute respect,” Love said. “We want you to enjoy the water, beaches and trails, but your safety must always come first.”
The department is offering the following safety tips regarding Lake Superior:
Steer Clear of Piers and Breakwaters: Artificial structures create lethal structural currents during high winds. Large waves washing over concrete breakwaters can easily knock you into turbulent, freezing water where rescue is nearly impossible.
Never Turn Your Back on the Lake: Large, unexpected "rogue" or "king" waves can surge much farther up the beach than normal surf, pulling onlookers directly into the water.
Stay off Wet Rocks: If a rock is wet, it means waves are reaching it. Black basalt and sandstone formations along the Superior shoreline become incredibly slick when sprayed, making it easy to slip into deep water.
Maintain a Safe Distance from Edge Drop-offs: Popular cliff areas (such as Presque Isle Park) experience intense wind gusts during severe weather. Stand far back from the edges, as sudden gusts or crumbling sandstone can cause fatal falls.
In an emergency, Public Safety recommends calling 911 and giving the dispatcher your exact location using landmarks or beach access names near Lake Superior, or mile markers or coordinates while hiking. Public Safety also recommends staying on the line with 911 as long as it is safe to do so.