Grand Haven became an important base for life-saving on the Great Lakes, where in the 1800s vital transportation was threatened by storms, accidents, and loss of life. After Congress formed the United States Life Saving Service in 1871, Grand Haven Station No. 9 was established to oversee the operations of 12 stations on Lake Michigan. Surfmen trained there in life-saving techniques and responded to disasters offshore. In 1915 the U.S. Coast Guard was formed and has continued operations in Grand Haven ever since.