BeachGuard Flags & Status Signs
IDEM’s Lake Michigan Beaches program uses a “stop light” color-coding system for all notification activities. Red signs and flags signal that the beach is CLOSED for swimming. Yellow / Gold signs and flags signal that the beach is under an ADVISORY which means that swimming is allowed, but to use caution since an increased risk of illness may be present. Green signs and flags indicate that the beach is OPEN for swimming.
Water Quality Notice: All natural bodies of water contain microscopic organisms. This area is monitored for E. coli bacteria, an indicator of this possible presence of human health risks. If bacteria levels are above state health standards, an advisory or closure sign will be posted at this location. Do not ingest lake water and, as always, swim at your own risk.
Water Quality Today Good: Based on recent monitoring for E. coli bacteria.
Caution: Water Quality Advisory. Increased risk of illness may be present based on recent monitoring for E. coli bacteria. For your safety: Swim at your own risk, Do not ingest lake water, Shower after swimming, Wash hands before eating, Do not swim if you are ill.
Closed: This area is closed to swimming. Based on recent monitoring of E. coli bacteria, serious risk of illness may be present.
No ingiera agua del lago. Nade a su propio riesgo.
Verde: No hay aviso puesto. En este momento.
Amarillo: Precaucion: Aviso de calidad de agua. Aumento de riesgo de enfermedad probable basado en recientes analisis de la bacteria. De la bacteria E. coli.
Rojo: Playa cerrada no entre al agua. Gran riesgo de enfermedad probable.