(CENTREVILLE) – Water levels are high around St. Joseph County due to some recent significant rain.

With that, St. Joseph County Undersheriff Jason Bingaman is asking boaters in St. Joseph County to refrain from causing wakes until water levels recede.

Many St. Joseph County lakes and streams are at extremely high levels following the heavy rain received in the past week. High lake levels will make boating more hazardous, so boaters and anglers should prepare for these conditions by using extra caution:

With the extremely high lake levels, wakes may cause shoreline damage; docks and boats to come unattached and dangerous floating objects.

Please use caution when launching because high water can make ramps tricky.

When boating near the shore or in coves, go slow to avoid underwater obstacles such as signposts, trees, stumps and other obstructions that are normally on dry ground.

Bingaman also reminds all boaters of a Michigan Compiled Law that says the owner of any vessel operated upon the waters of Michigan is personally responsible for any damage to life or property resulting from a wake or swell created by the negligent operations or propulsion of the vessel, if the vessel is being operated with his or her consent.

The Sheriff’s Marine Patrol Division deputies are on the water in many locations and available for assistance. The Marine Patrol Division investigates incidents that occur on the water, provide no-cost boater safety courses, and conduct inspections of watercrafts.