Grand Haven, MI (WZZM) - The annual Coast Guard Festival in Grand Haven is coming to a close.  Honoring the tireless efforts of protecting and patrolling the Nation's waterways.

The Coast Guard has been stationed in Grand Haven since 1877.  Those men and women have experienced very different challenges than their ocean-based counterparts.

Lt. Kevin McDonald, Executive Field Officer for Sector Field Office Grand Haven explained, "The problem in the lakes is, the wind driven waves create horrible, horrible rip tides.  People may be lulled into a false sense of security on the Great Lakes.  It's just as dangerous to drown in the Great Lakes as it is anywhere else."

Which is why most beaches in west Michigan have a flag system.

The 13 On Target Weather Team provides a Lake Michigan forecast map that explains the swimming and boating conditions daily.