Safety

Emergency Response at Raspberry Island

NPS Photo

Safety Is Your Responsibility

"The lake is the boss. No matter how big you are or what kind of boat you've got, the lake is still the boss." - Julian Nelson, Commercial Fisherman

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore encompasses more than 500 square miles of Lake Superior. Visitors must be aware of the risks and hazards associated with the lake and island environments. Lake Superior is notorious for its cold temperatures, rough seas, fog, and sudden squalls. Boaters should be alert to changing conditions and should consult current marine forecasts before leaving on a trip. Marine weather forecasts are broadcast on marine channel 7, 162.525 MHz.

Cell phone service is limited may not work throughout the park. A marine radio (VHF) is recommended for all water travel. For emergencies, call 911 or use marine channel 16 and specify your location. The U.S. Coast Guard and Park Rangers monitor marine channel 16. When talking with first responders always make sure to specify your location.

For non emergency incidents call [phone] (park headquarters in Bayfield 8:00am - 4:30pm).

U.S. Coast Guard [phone].

 

NPS Photo/N. Howk

 

Bears

Remember that you are in bear country. Check out the Bear Country Safety page for more information about bears and how to help prevent them from being attracted to campsites.

Drinking Water

Potable water may be available seasonally at Little Sand Bay, Meyers Beach, Sand Island-East Bay, and Stockton Island-Presque Isle. Be prepared in case water is not available. Water from the lake should be boiled for two minutes or filtered through an adequate filter (0.4 microns pore size) before use. This precaution eliminates many organisms including Giardia, a bacteria which causes an intestinal disorder.

Fires

Campfires must be built in metal fire receptacles where provided. Beach fires must be built on bare beach sand and be no more than three feet in height or diameter. Dead, loose wood on the ground in forested areas or unvegetated beach areas may be collected for firewood. To limit the spread of harmful insects, do NOT bring firewood into the park. Chain saws cannot be operated in the national lakeshore.

Before leaving a campfire, the fire must be extinguished and free of litter with no evidence of food remains that could attract wildlife. Fires are not allowed on Meyers Beach, Raspberry Island beaches, at Julian Bay and Presque Isle Bay on Stockton Island, or on beaches within 150 feet of campsites where fire receptacles are provided. Fires are not permitted in portable grills or stoves on docks or on boats tied to public docks. Open fires will be prohibited during times of high fire danger.

Insects

Biting insects can be prevalent on the islands from June to September. Wearing long pants and long sleeved shirts will provide some protection from mosquitos, biting flies, and ticks. Insect repellents are helpful. The ticks that transmit Lyme Disease and Ehrlichiosis are found in the park. If you notice a rash, flu-like symptoms, or pain in the joints following a tick bite, call your physician.

Pets

Pets must be kept on a leash that is six feet or shorter and never left unattended. Persons having pets within the park must dispose of all pet excrement. Excrement must be deposited in wooded areas at least 100 feet from any trail, campsite, dock, building, picnic area, or water source. Pets are not allowed in public buildings or on scheduled Apostle Islands Cruise Service trips (except guide dogs accompanying visually or hearing impaired people).

 

Park Rangers practice search and rescue and first aid during all weather conditions.

NPS Photo/ N. Howk

 

Staying Safe in the Apostle Islands

What's the Weather Like? Weather

A fed bear is a dead bear. Bear Safety

Get out on the water! Kayak Safety

Where Water Meets Sky Boating