2023-Aug-10
OPP Rescue Shows the Importance of Cold Water Awareness and PFDs
On August 8, 2023, the Southern Georgian Bay OPP Detachment pulled a 61 year old sailor to safety after calls for help were heard in Midland Bay. A community member called 911 after hearing the cries for help. The OPP attended the scene by land and quickly commandeered a small local boat to reach the person in distress.
On the scene police located a male in the water at the stern area of a sailboat with a small Zodiac vessel attached to it approximately two hundred meters off the shoreline. The sailor was found conscious, but very fatigued in the water without a lifejacket clinging to the exterior of the Zodiac. The man had been in the water for over an hour which had reduced his ability to physically move. Officers were able to fit the man with a lifejacket from the Zodiac which helped them remove him from the cool water. The man was transported to an area hospital for treatment and was fortunately later released.
Lessons to Be Learned?
Most of the water in Canada is cold year round and cold water is a major contributor to recreational drowning deaths year after year. This story highlights the danger of cold water even during a season when the water is not considered overly cold. Prolonged exposure even to summer water temperatures can cause body temperatures to drop and lead to hypothermia.
This sailor was fortunate to enough to be near a shore and within earshot of a community member so that emergency services could be dispatched. Georgian Bay is a big place and self rescue is often the only option. Wearing a lifejacket or PFD and being prepared can make a big difference in the outcome of these situations.
Check out GBA’s Navigating Our Waters page for information on boating safety and cold water awareness.