Grand Haven, MI (WGHN) – Last May a new notification system called SwimSmart debuted at Grand Haven State Park. It’s an electronic, web-enabled beach warning system. The notification system mimics the familiar double-red, red, yellow and green flag system and includes other safety features.
Jacob Soter is founder and CEO of SwimSmart and says they took the feedback from the community very seriously and that changes are coming later this Summer to the system based on the communities input. Hear all about it in the interview below.
In a move to further improve public safety and visitor awareness on and near the water, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, in partnership with Marquette, Michigan-based SwimSmart has eight orange towers, located on the beach, each include an electronic light display that mimics the familiar double-red, red, yellow and green flags visitors are used to seeing on the beach. Additionally, life rings are stationed at each tower. If one of the rings is accessed to aid in helping someone in the water, 911 and park rangers will simultaneously be contacted.
The four blue light towers, located along the sidewalk, feature a readily accessible emergency phone that can be pressed by the public and staff to trigger an immediate emergency response. These blue light towers are equipped with a higher-power loudspeaker, video monitoring system and a direct line to the Ottawa County 911 center.
All of these features will enhance public safety and emergency response times at the popular state park.
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