The West Parry Sound OPP marine unit is now out regularly patrolling the waters of Georgian Bay and local lakes.
Constable Aaron Jeffery says boaters should ensure they have life jackets on board, and that those life jackets fit properly, as water temperatures are still quite cold at this time of year.
“The water temperature is not much above freezing. Hypothermia sets in much quicker in these temperatures. So, we always recommend people wear their personal flotation devices or life jackets, but we especially recommend it with cooler water temperature. So, if you do go in the water, you won’t have such a hard time keeping your head above water.”
Jeffery also says boaters should check their equipment to ensure everything has batteries and is in working order.
He also recommends anyone heading out on the water tell someone where they are planning to go, so emergency personnel can locate them quicker if need be.