Water safety always is an issue, but with the influx of new Northern Michigan University students who might be unfamiliar with Lake Superior, it’s especially pertinent this time of year.

It’s also important because of the changing weather patterns as fall sets in. Just a few days ago, fog rolled in and out of the area, which would have made for dicey boating had anybody been out on the water.

It’s probably been said many times before, but Lake Superior, even on a “good” weather day, is unpredictable.

Although it might be an inconvenience, wearing a personal flotation device is imperative, and that means having enough lifejackets for everyone on board.

Last Saturday in Little Bay de Noc, three men from Illinois were fishing when a large wave hit their boat and caused one of the men to be tossed overboard into the water. One man jumped into the water to rescue that boater, with a passerby able to rescue one of the subjects. Unfortunately, the other man died, with his body recovered Thursday.

None of the boaters were wearing lifejackets.

Along with PFDs, boaters should carry flares, air horns and whistles for foggy conditions. They also should have a cell phone and marine radio for all types of weather.

Boaters, though, aren’t the only ones who need to be alert of hazards and weather conditions. Swimmers should be on the lookout for dangerous currents, including rip currents that can pull people away from shore and tire out even the strongest of swimmers.

It’s recommended people pay attention to warning flags before going into the water. Think of them as traffic lights. Green means “go,” although they should be aware of changing conditions. Yellow means “caution,” with rip currents a possibility. Red means “stop,” with swimmers advised to stay on the beach to avoid drowning.

If caught in a current, don’t try to fight it. Instead, swim parallel to the shore to get out of the current, or float along with it until it disappears.

If you see someone in trouble, help from the shore by throwing something that floats, like a life ring or cooler, to that person. If you enter the water to rescue a swimmer, bring a flotation device.

No matter what the situation, stay calm. That probably is easier said than done, but the combination of panic and exhaustion can be a deadly one. A focus on breathing and keeping your head above water is the correct way to respond.

Of course, not getting into trouble to begin with is even better. So, no matter how inviting Lake Superior looks, even in calm weather, be constantly aware of changing weather patterns and conditions.

It could save your life.