Megan Ferraro Shares Great Lakes Water Safety Tips on Michigan’s Big Show

As families across Michigan head to lakes and beaches this summer, Megan Ferraro, Executive Director of The ZAC Foundation and Chair of the U.S. National Water Safety Action Plan, joined Michigan’s Big Show to share practical water safety tips.

Open Water Safety: What Michigan Families Need to Know

Open water plays by different rules than a pool. Ferraro encouraged families to swim only at lifeguarded beaches, stay near the lifeguard stand, and pay attention to beach warning flags that signal dangerous conditions. If caught in a current, stay calm, flip onto your back, and float until you can safely return to shore.

Drowning Prevention Tips for Boating, Beaches, and Beyond

Always wear a properly fitted, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket while boating or paddleboarding, and designate a Water Watcher whose sole job is supervising the water.

Ferraro also recommended age-appropriate conversations about water safety — teaching young children to ask permission before approaching water, and reminding teens and young adults to avoid alcohol near water, never swim alone, and always enter unfamiliar water feet first.

Listen to Megan’s full interview on Michigan’s Big Show.