The water is getting colder and the OPP wants you to be prepared.
Police say hypothermia is a real risk in the fall season and wearing a life jacket can mean the difference between life and death.
Officials say it’s important to remember the 1-10-1 rule. If you fall in, you need to control your breathing within the minute it takes for the cold shock to wear off. Within ten minutes you’ll lose the use of your arms and legs. Police say this is why a life jacket is important because it will keep you from drowning. Even in the coldest waters, you can still remain awake for up to an hour, allowing you to call for help.
Boats under 20 feet, canoes, kayaks and any other small vessels must have a proper-sized life jacket for everyone on board. You can find more details on how to survive hypothermia on the BoatSmart website.