Beach Safety Reminder: Stay Safe at Evanston’s Lakefront

• Swim when lifeguards are on duty and stay within the designated swimming area. Swimming beyond the marked buoys is prohibited.
• Check the beach flag before entering the water. Evanston uses a color-coded flag system to communicate current swimming conditions and risks.
• Never enter the water when swimming is prohibited. Weather, waves, water quality, and other lake conditions can result in swimming restrictions or beach closures.
• Know your limits. Lake Michigan conditions can change quickly, and strong currents and waves can make swimming dangerous, even for experienced swimmers.
• Keep children within arm’s reach and closely supervise children around the water.
• Wear a life jacket when appropriate. The City offers free, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets at its five swimming beaches during permitted swimming hours, while supplies last.
• Never attempt a water rescue yourself. If someone is struggling in the water, alert a lifeguard or call 911. Life rings are available at designated locations along Evanston's lakefront.
• Pay attention to water quality. The City recommends staying out of the water if it is very murky, has an odor, or following heavy rainfall within the previous 24 hours.

Before you go: Check the City's current Beach Status & Closings for the latest swimming conditions.

When in doubt, stay out. A few extra minutes of caution can help keep everyone safe along Evanston's lakefront.

Flag Warning System

The City uses a swim flag warning system to provide beachgoers with a clear indication of swimming conditions. Flags are located at each beach on one of the lifeguard chairs, and signage is placed at the beach entrances.

These flags should not be ignored. When red flags are out, swimming is prohibited, and there is a great threat to anyone who enters the water. 

The absence of flags does not assure safe waters. Swim bans and advisories may be implemented based on weather conditions such as lightning or high winds, surf conditions such as high waves, or poor water quality. Please be aware of the current swim status when you go to the beach, and follow all instructions from lifeguards. 

Dangers of rip currents

According to the National Weather Service (NWS), rip currents can occur anywhere on the Great Lakes, given the right surf conditions. Unfortunately, they are not always obvious by looking at the water. Rip currents pull people away from shore. Their speeds can vary from moment to moment, catching even the strongest swimmers off guard. View this "Play it Safe at Great Lakes Beaches" video created by the National Weather Service. 

NWS Rip Current Information:

• Overview
• Safety Information
• Questions and Answers