As we enter August and summer starts winding down, The Huron-Clinton Metroparks remains committed to preventing drownings in Southeast Michigan. In addition to offering
free swim lessons and life jackets, the Huron-Clinton Metroparks has installed throw bags and rescue boards at every Metropark beach to accompany existing life jacket loaner stations.
Additionally, the Metroparks Police Department has acquired life-saving LUCAS devices to better respond to emergency situations where CPR is required. They remind visitors to stay safe during their trips near water.
The Metroparks have installed brand new rescue boards and throw bags at all designated beach areas. These new resources are easily accessible, helping bystanders assist swimmers in distress until emergency personnel arrive. They accompany existing life jacket loaner stations.
Additionally, the Metroparks Police are now equipped with LUCAS devices, a machine that performs high-quality, automated chest compressions when someone is in cardiac arrest. Officers can bring the device directly to the scene of emergencies, ensuring timely aid while paramedics are en route. The LUCAS device can also be used during transportation to local hospitals, increasing patient outcomes. In addition to beaches, these devices are also deployed at golf courses and other locations with high senior attendance where medical responses are more frequent.
“With new life-saving equipment like the rescue throw bags and rescue boards, the public is better equipped to respond quickly and effectively in emergencies,” said Metroparks Chief of Police Michael Reese. “These tools can truly mean the difference between life and death. The addition of the LUCAS devices then assist our officers in better responding to emergencies at the scene. Collectively, they represent a major step forward in our work to prevent drownings and protect lives across the Metroparks.”
Metroparks Offers Thousands of Free Swim Lessons and Life JacketsThe beach equipment new to Metroparks this summer is part of Everyone in the Pool, an initiative aimed at reversing the trend of drownings by expanding access to free lifesaving water skills and tools.
This summer, Metroparks and its partners have already provided free swim lessons to more than 1,900 children and adults.
Over the past four years, Metroparks and its partners have provided free water safety and swim lessons to more than 7,700 participants. Last year alone, the initiative provided more than 3,000 children and adults with free instruction across 20 locations in Livingston, Macomb, Oakland, Washtenaw and Wayne counties. Programs include free swim lessons for both youth and adults and a lifeguard training pilot program to address statewide shortages and support community swim programs.
Last month, the Metroparks teamed up with partners in Macomb, Oakland and Wayne counties to distribute 1,300 free children’s and adult life jackets, removing cost and access barriers for families who may not have this essential safety equipment at home. These efforts build on the Metroparks’ existing beach safety resources, including free-to-borrow life jackets available at every beach and pool inside the parks, along with recently installed rescue boards and throw bags that make it easier for bystanders to assist in emergencies.
“Too many families in our region have experienced the heartbreak of losing a loved one to drowning and we’re determined to change that,” said Metroparks CEO Amy McMillan. “From free swim lessons to life jackets at every beach and now new life-saving equipment for our officers, we’re taking real, proactive steps to protect every visitor. Everyone deserves to feel confident and safe when they step into the water and we’re working every day to make that a reality.”
Water safety tips to help families stay safe this summer
Even strong swimmers should exercise caution, especially in open water. Parkgoers are encouraged to stay vigilant and follow water safety guidelines while enjoying the Metroparks. Visitors are reminded to practice water safety by:
● Learn to Swim: Enroll in swimming lessons to develop your skills. Both children and adults can benefit from knowing how to swim. Partners across Southeast Michigan offer free swim lessons through Everyone in the Pool. Visit our website to find lessons in your area.
● Constant Supervision: Never leave children unattended near water. Designate a “water watcher” to monitor swimmers at all times.
● Learn CPR: Being trained in CPR can make a critical difference in an emergency. Many organizations, including the YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit CPR training courses.
● Wear a life jacket: Even good swimmers should consider wearing a life jacket, especially in open water. Parkgoers are encouraged to bring their own or borrow one of the Metroparks’ free ofcharge. Life jackets for adults and children are available at every beach and pool inside the Metroparks.
For more information about Everyone in the Pool and future water safety efforts, click here.
