Heartbreaking losses due to water-related fatalities have impacted families across the city, highlighting the urgent need for improved water safety. Driven by this need and a personal loss, Fire and Police Commissioner LaNelle Ramey has spearheaded the WaterSAFE MKE Project.
Our Mission
We aim to reduce drownings by providing readily available, life-saving tools online, and life ring stations along the Milwaukee River and near the North Avenue Bridge. Based on Milwaukee Fire Department expertise, these stations are strategically placed to be accessible to bystanders who can assist those in distress. The WaterSAFE MKE Project will be instrumental in saving lives by providing access to life-saving tools along Milwaukee waterways.
The WaterSAFE Team
Be Prepared
Be prepared to take action when someone is drowning. In emergency situations, it is crucial to remain calm and think clearly. Panic can hinder effective use of a life ring. If you find yourself in an immediate life-threatening situation, do not rely solely on a life ring. Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately for assistance. The life ring is designed to assist in emergency situations; however, it should not replace proper emergency response and medical care.
pick up life ring
When someone is drowning, act fast and identify the easily marked life ring. Keep hold of the rope at all times.
throw life ring
Aim and throw, focusing on getting the life ring close to yet not on top of the person in the water.
pull steadily
Once the person has a hold of the life ring, firmly and steadily pull on the rope, guiding the person to shore.
call 911
While the life ring is in the water, call for emergency services. Keep calm and continue pulling the rope.
Make a splash for water safety
In the United States, over 3,500 people fatally drown every year. Since 2020, the Milwaukee Police Department, Fire Department Boat and Dive Teams have responded over 140 times to drowning cases.
44% of Americans cannot swim well. To test your water competency, try these exercises from the Red Cross:
Situations that may result in drowning include increased exposure to water, participation in extreme water sports, and alcohol consumption.
According to the CDC, nearly 80% of drowning victims are male.
