Shipping on the Great Lakes: How Safety Has Improved Over the Years

Technological Advancements in Weather Monitoring

The Great Lakes have seen significant improvements in shipping safety since the Edmund Fitzgerald disaster in 1975. Back then, ships relied on basic weather reports and simple navigation tools. Today, technology has revolutionized sailing safety.

• 1970s: Sailors received weather updates through radio broadcasts and had to create their own weather charts, which were often inaccurate.
• Today: Ships have access to real-time weather data, detailed forecasts, and data from buoys and satellites. This helps them avoid dangerous storms and plan routes more effectively.

Example: The Edmund Fitzgerald might not have set sail if the crew had today's weather forecasts.

Improved Ship Tracking Systems

Tracking ships has also seen major advancements.

• 1970s: If a ship got into trouble, it was difficult to locate.
• Today: Ships are equipped with EPIRBs (Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacons) and AIS (Automatic Identification Systems) that send their location automatically. This allows rescue teams to find them quickly.
• The Coast Guard now has better equipment, including helicopters and boats that can operate in rough weather.

Better Mapping of the Great Lakes

The Great Lakes are now better mapped than ever before.

• 1970s: Old maps were created by dropping weights on ropes to measure depth.
• Today: Advanced technology provides sailors with precise details about the lake floor, helping them avoid shallow areas and hidden dangers.
• Ships use electronic charts that update automatically, ensuring they always have the latest information.

Enhanced Safety Inspections and Regulations

Safety inspections and rules have also improved significantly.

• After the Edmund Fitzgerald sank, the Coast Guard made changes to how ships are checked and maintained.
• Crews now conduct regular self-inspections, and ships have better safety equipment, such as survival suits.
• These changes have made sailing on the Great Lakes much safer over the years.