Gilford, NH – As the boating season gets underway in New Hampshire, the New Hampshire State Police (NHSP) Marine Patrol is warning water enthusiasts about the dangers of cold-water immersion during the spring and early summer months.
Despite warmer air temperatures, water in lakes, rivers, and coastal areas can remain dangerously cold, often below 60°F until June. Immersion in such cold water can lead to shock, hypothermia, and even drowning in just minutes, regardless of the weather conditions. The NHSP urges boaters to exercise caution, especially when water temperatures remain unseasonably low.
According to the Marine Patrol, many boaters and swimmers underestimate the dangers of cold-water immersion. Falling into cold water can quickly impair muscle function, hinder the ability to swim, and even pose a life-threatening situation. Marine Patrol officers have seen strong swimmers struggle to stay afloat under such conditions.
To help stay safe while on the water, the NHSP recommends the following precautions:
- Wear a life jacket: Cold water can sap strength quickly, making it difficult to put on a life jacket after immersion.
- Check water temperatures: Always verify current conditions before heading out onto the water.
- Dress appropriately: Layer clothing and consider wearing a wetsuit or drysuit for early-season conditions.
- File a float plan: Share your boating plans with someone you trust, including your expected route and return time.
- Be prepared: Keep communication devices such as a marine radio or a charged cell phone in a waterproof case.
The Marine Patrol will continue to monitor New Hampshire’s waterways to ensure safe boating practices and educate the public on safe behaviors. Boaters are also encouraged to take a boating safety course and familiarize themselves with the state’s boating regulations. For more information, visit NHSP Boating Education.
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