Grand Haven, MI (WGHN) – A Ribbon-cutting took place Monday at Grand Haven State Park for the electronic, web-enabled beach warning system. The new notification system mimics the familiar double-red, red, yellow and green flag system and includes other safety features.
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.
Jacob Soter is founder and CEO of SwimSmart and says that 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. 911 operations, local law enforcement, Michigan DNR, National Weather Service in Grand Rapids were on hand Monday in support of the system.
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