The recent rescue of two paddleboarders on Lake Superior points up the need to keep safety in mind when taking to the water for recreation.

The women, a 29-year-old from Minnesota and a 37-year-old from Illinois who both were originally from the Ontonagon area, needed help Aug. 8 after drifting out on Lake Superior near Ontonagon, according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

“They were in good condition overall but just could not paddle against the strong wind to get back to shore,” said DNR Conservation Officer Pete Shambaugh, who was called by Conservation Officer Ethen Mapes to assist in the rescue attempt.

Negaunee Regional Dispatch provided the two officers with an approximate GPS location coordinate for the paddleboarders, about a mile from shore and a mile and a half west of Ontonagon.

Though the officers only took about a half-hour to reach the paddleboarders using an Ontonagon County Sheriff’s Office patrol boat, “by this time, with the strong south wind, the individuals had drifted an additional mile and were now approximately two miles from shore,” Mapes said.

He noted, “Neither individual had a life jacket, and they had lost one of their paddles in the wind. One of the two had never been on a paddleboard before that day.”

While calling the quick response, “commendable,” DNR Law Enforcement Division Chief Jason Haines said the incident “also illustrates how changing Great Lakes weather, inexperience and a lack of safety precautions can swiftly lead to dangerous situations.”

To stay safe while paddleboarding — and several of these suggestions should be considered for other water activities as well — the DNR recommends —

— Wear a life jacket: Always wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device that fits properly. Even experienced swimmers can be caught off guard by waves or currents.

— Use a leash: A leash connects the person to the board, preventing it from floating away if the person falls in, especially in open water or when the water is choppy or cold.

— Carry a waterproof phone: A mobile phone in a waterproof case can be a lifeline in emergencies.

— Consider a whistle: A whistle can be used to signal for help in low-visibility situations.

— Check weather forecasts before heading out: Be aware of wind direction and changing conditions.

— Know your limits: Be aware of your level of skill, experience and physical capabilities.

— Understand basic paddling techniques: Numerous online resources are available instructing these methods.

— Wear a wetsuit or a drysuit: A wetsuit is important for comfort and safety when paddling in typically colder waters or during springtime and autumn.