Labor Day is over, but officials remind the public that the idea of “one last swim” in Lake Michigan is still something that needs to be approached with caution.

Lifeguards are no longer on-duty, so if you want to take advantage of the warm weather while you can and take a dip in the lake, you do so at your own risk.

The Great Lakes Surf Project points out that this has been one of the most deadly summers in since 2010, with 31 lives lost in the surf around our Great Lake.

The US Coast Guard Station in St. Joseph is stressing water safety for late-season beach-goers, as temperatures will remain warm in the water through October again this year.

Chief among the recommendations is using the buddy system when swimming, and remembering that strong waves can sweep you off the piers.

There are safety buoys all along the piers at Silver Beach for swimmers in trouble, and other beaches are following suit.