MICHIGAN CITY, Ind. (AP) — The LaPorte County sheriff says the drowning this week of a 14-year-old boy near the historic Lighthouse Pier in Michigan City underscores the need to move forward with steps to increase safety there.

Sheriff John Boyd tells The (Munster) Times that the iconic landmark and high waves draw visitors, but also create a deadly combination. The Michigan City Pier Safety Committee was formed shortly after the death of a Nappanee man late last summer to find answers.

Boyd said the committee has been looking to other Lake Michigan communities with similar piers to determine what has worked. Among the initial efforts will be to install a series of life rings along the pier. Additional signage in the area also is being considered.