On Thursday, local agencies highlighted their responses on the lake, river and beaches, including showcasing a helicopter rescue demo where divers jumped into Lake Michigan.
First responders are reminding the public that Lake Michigan has strong rip currents, and that even the most experienced swimmers should take extra steps to keep safe.
"You want to check the weather conditions on Lake Michigan, conditions can change really quick, storm rolls in 5 minutes you may have two to four-foot waves," Assistant Deputy Fire Commissioner Jim McDonough said.
"So, when you're coming out of the beach just take the time to look around and see if you can identify these poll markers. If ever there was an emergency, you can give the operator that poll marker, and then we can get you help quickly," Senior Emergency Management Coordinator at OEMC Shekinah Jones said.
The Chicago Police and fire department joined the U.S. Coast Guard, the Chicago Park District, and the Office of Emergency Management and Communications for the water safety demo.
Chicago Beaches open on Friday, May 22, 2026.