Kayaker rescued by off-duty OPP officer in Fenelon Falls, Ont.

A recent incident involving a stranded kayaker is serving as a reminder to cottagers to stay well-informed about Ontario’s safe boating practices.

According to the OPP, on May 9, a lone kayaker in Fenelon Falls, Ontario, became stranded when their kayak overturned in the water. The struggling boater was noticed by an off-duty OPP officer who happened to be on the shore.

The officer swam out to assist the kayaker who was approximately 20 meters away and was able to successfully bring them back to shore. Thankfully, the kayaker was wearing a lifejacket at the time and was uninjured.

Cottagers are encouraged to follow Canada’s boating safety requirements by ensuring their kayaks are equipped with personal flotation devices for everyone on board, a whistle, and 15 meters of buoyant rope.

For more information on kayaking safety in Ontario, visit Destination Ontario.