On November 15, at 6:35 p.m., members of the Noëlville Detachment of the OPP received a report of a possible boater in distress on the French River.
The caller reported seeing blinking lights on the river, on the adjacent shoreline of their property on Pine Beach Road in Alban.
"Due to strong winds and inclement weather, the Nipissing West OPP Marine Unit was deployed to assist. At 10:45 p.m., they located the stranded boater whose vessel had become stuck on a rock," says Constable Michelle Coulombe.
The 53-year-old, from Brant County, Ontario, was rescued and treated by Paramedics for mild hypothermia and released.
Officers would like to remind boaters that a lifejacket is your best defense against cold-water shock. Research shows that unexpected immersion in cold water is a serious risk to life if a boater is not wearing a flotation device. This is true despite the boater's experience, closeness to shore, and even swimming ability.
A sudden fall into cold water can seriously affect breathing, nerves, and muscle strength. A lifejacket gives you thermal protection and also keeps you buoyant.
For more information on cold water risks, go to: https://enjoyboating.ca/be-
