Add safety to your packing list this holiday weekend!

Michigan Department of Natural Resources sent this bulletin at 08/28/2024 01:52 PM EDT

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a mother sitting on a bench watching her child jump up facing lake with sunset

As summer winds down, make the most of Labor Day weekend by putting safety first! Understand the risks of outdoor activities and familiarize yourself with essential safety tips; it's the best way to ensure fun, memorable outdoor experiences for everyone.

'Ride Right' for safe ORV riding

Ride Right logo with check mark

Riding the sand dunes at Silver Lake ORV Area and on Michigan's state-designated off-road trails, scramble areas and eligible roads can be a unique and fun experience, but safety is paramount. 

Tips for Silver Lake riding:

  • Keep your head on a swivel – make a concerted effort to scan and observe in all directions.
  • Know what is beyond the crest of a hill before traveling up and over.
  • Ride at a reasonable, safe speed and keep your wheels on the ground.
  • If you stop, choose spots that give you 360-degree visibility (where you can be seen from all angles).
  • Stay inside your vehicle.
  • Be aware of dune-riding fatigue – most crashes occur later in the day.

More Silver Lake tips ►


Tips for general ORV riding: 

  • Operate within the limits of your ORV and your own abilities.
  • Ride at a safe speed.
  • Ride sober.
  • Ride on the right side of the trail; trails have two-way traffic.
  • Always wear a helmet.
  • Keep lights on while riding.
  • Ride with your group’s most inexperienced rider in mind.
  • Keep a safe distance from the rider in front of you and use caution in dust clouds.

More ORV riding tips ►

Beach safety important for visitors of all ages

Before you jump in and cool off in a Great Lake or inland lake, there are measures you and your family can take to help prevent an accident. 

Remember the Great Lakes are large, powerful water systems that hold more than 20% of the world's fresh water. Strong currents can catch even the most experienced swimmer off guard.

 Two children playing in the sand with life jackets
  • Choose buoyed swim areas located in state parks. Swim areas offer additional safety measures and visual cautions. It's important to note that not all state parks have swim areas.
  • Pay close attention to the flag warning system at buoyed swim areas in state parks along the Great Lakes:
    • Double red flags = water access closed. By law, you cannot enter the water from the beach when double red flags are flying or if otherwise directed. 
    • Red flag = high hazard.
    • Yellow flag = medium hazard.
    • Green flag = low hazard.
  • Never swim alone, especially children.
  • Keep close watch on children and weak swimmers. Stay within arm's reach and have them wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket.

More beach tips ►

Commitment to boating safety ensures smooth sailing

motorized boat moving on water

Michigan is a freshwater paradise, offering countless adventures. Let's make sure we enjoy them safely with the following easy-to-implement tips.

  • Wear a life jacket.
  • Boat sober.
  • Check your boat before going out on the water.
  • Have a float plan. Inform someone who is not boating with you about the details of your trip.
  • Stay alert.
  • Carry a cell phone or marine radio.

More boating tips ►