(Independence) - The Great Lakes Beach & Water Safety Conference began today at the Double Tree Hilton in Independence. Rising water fatalities are a major topic of concern.
Jamie Racklyeft, is executive director of the Great Lakes Water Safety Consortium says this has been the deadliest year ever on the Great Lakes, with 106 drownings so far. Thirty-seven Lake Michigan, 33 Lake Erie, followed by lakes Ontario, Huron, and Superior.
At last count, 729 people have lost their lives on the great lakes since 2010.
Racklyeft is calling for increased water safety and training, more beach warning systems, additional swimming lessons, life jackets, and rescue equipment, including the use of waterborne drones like the Emily (pictured), which can be sent into dangerous waters to rescue victims without putting others at risk.
The Great Lake Beach & Water Safety Conference continues through Thursday at the Double Tree Hilton in Independence. Visitors are welcome.
(Photos by Ken Robinson/WTAM)
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