Chicago City Wire

With boating season and summer activities beginning in Chicago, the Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC), the Chicago Fire, Police Departments, Park District, U.S. Coast Guard, Illinois Department of Natural Resources Conservation Police, and Harbor Safety Committee are reminding residents and visitors to adhere to boating rules and prioritize safety on beaches and pools.

Chicago beaches will open for the summer on Friday, May 24. The Chicago Park District urges patrons to enjoy the beaches safely by observing “No Swimming Allowed” signage indicating areas where swimming is not sanctioned. Visitors should consult the district’s website or social media platforms for safe water conditions before heading out to the beach and only enter the water when a lifeguard is on duty. Swim hours are from 11 am to 7 pm daily from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.

Key safety tips include:

- **Wear a Life Jacket**: Ensure life jackets are worn properly according to their designated use.

- **Mind Break Wall Locations**: Boaters should be aware of break wall locations at all times.

- **Avoid Boating Under Influence**: Operating a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal.

- **Learn to Swim**: Local swim programs offer lessons; details can be found on the Chicago Park District website.

- **Never Swim Alone or at Night**: Swimming alone or in darkness is dangerous.

- **Swim Near Lifeguards**: Lifeguards provide essential safety measures; follow their instructions.

- **Take a CPR Class**: Learning CPR can help in emergencies; classes are available through local agencies.

- **Report Suspicious Activity**: Immediate reporting can help save lives; call 9-1-1 if needed.

- **Use Sunscreen and Stay Hydrated**: Essential for overall health while enjoying outdoor activities.

The OEMC's Location Identifier/Pole Marker Program helps event attendees reference their location along Grant Park area and DuSable Lake Shore Drive during emergencies. These markers assist first responders in locating individuals quickly.

For additional public safety, OEMC encourages downloading the Chicago OEMC App which provides safety information, preparedness tips, emergency alerts, weather updates, and more. It is available through Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

OEMC will monitor events with public safety partners advising residents to stay informed about weather conditions via local media or weather apps. Alerts can be received by signing up for NotifyChicago alerts at NotifyChicago.org.

To receive specific notifications:

- For lakefront notices text “CHILAKE” to 78015

- For business-related alerts text “CHIBIZ” to 67283

For further information on emergency preparedness visit Chicago.gov/OEMC. Follow OEMC on Facebook (@coemc), Twitter (@ChicagoOEMC), and Instagram (chicago_oemc_911).