(Michigan City, IN) - First responders have an increased presence at beaches in Michigan City this year in the hopes of ensuring a safer summer for lake swimmers. The Michigan City Fire Department has taken the responsibility of overseeing the training of lifeguards at Washington Park Beach.

This summer, the beach is fully staffed after the city raised wages and offered paid training for lifeguards. And Indiana DNR officers are also now working with lifeguards on jet-ski rescues.

According to recent statistics put out by the Great Lakes Surg Rescue Project, 19 people have drowned in Lake Michigan so far this year. None of the drownings haven taken place in northern Indiana.

On Tuesday, rescuers responded to a possible drowning. Just after 6:00, Michigan City firefighters responded to a call about a possible victim described as a “drunk swimmer past the bouys.” On arrival it was found that the victim was out of the water and okay. Lifeguards were off duty at the time.