Now that warmer weather has started to arrive, Canadian boaters are being reminded to take a few extra precautions to guard against the dangers of falling into the cold water.
Smartboater.ca was created by the Canadian Safe Boating Council.
It says many people think that a fall into the water is no big deal, but the reality is, when dealing with the cold water, the goals of getting back to shore, climbing back aboard or using a lifejacket often can’t be reached.
A University of Manitoba professor has developed what he calls the 1-10-1 Principle to help you understand how your body will react.
-You will have One minute to get your breathing under control, as there is an initial gasp response followed by extreme hyperventilation.
-Ten minutes of meaningful movement before the muscles in your extremities lose their effectiveness, and up to one hour before you lose consciousness due to hypothermia.
If you’re not wearing a lifejacket, you have very little time before their arms and legs begin to stop functioning, preventing you from staying afloat.
For more tips and information, please click here.
Enjoying an early spring boating adventure. Be sure to remember 1-10-1…the important numbers for #coldwatersurvival.
Learn more about #coldwaterawareness at https://t.co/XQLFgHnxE0#enjoyboating #boatingsafety #knowbeforeyougo #CSBC #springboating pic.twitter.com/Es68srfloh
— CSBC Boating Tips (@csbc_bt_tips) May 5, 2021
Media Release: DON’T GET STRANDED – Ensure that you and your boat are prepared for a day on the water – https://t.co/ok8a7Jp8by It’s a beautiful day; the sun is shining and you’ve just launched your boat for the start of another season on the water… pic.twitter.com/lqulNkL9hf
— Barrie Police (@BarriePolice) May 7, 2021
Media Release: Cold Water Can Kill – Wearing a Lifejacket and Thermal Protection could save your life – https://t.co/Os8t37ZtY5 It’s finally Spring. The days are getting longer… pic.twitter.com/JeFcpNwOfz
— Barrie Police (@BarriePolice) May 5, 2021