New Grand Haven beach towers aim to speed emergency response [Video]

GRAND HAVEN, Mich. (WOOD) — The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is reminding people to stay safe on the water as we approach the July 4 holiday.

Eight emergency towers in Grand Haven State Park activated earlier this year will provide a new tool to alert first responders and inform swimmers of conditions. The orange towers have a life ring inside a cabinet and the system will notify first responders if the door is opened.

“When the life ring cabinet is accessed, it will automatically notify any of our buildings that are staffed with state park personnel, as well as send a phone call and a text message alert to the local 911 center to activate emergency responders,” park supervisor Andrew Lundborg said.

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Lundborg said the towers are a great resource to have heading into the holiday. While they have not yet been for a rescue, the goal is to help improve response …