You’re out in your boat and come upon a swimmer in distress far from shore. What’s a hero to do?
“Terrified people have superhuman strength and might pull you under if you get too close,” warns Barbara Byers of The Lifesaving Society. Most importantly: Stay. In. The. Boat. If you have a PFD—which of course you do—put it on. If you have a spare, throw it to the swimmer.
No extra PFD? Extend your paddle or line (and of course you have these on board too) for the swimmer to grab. In a pinch, “even a towel or T-shirt could work,” says Byers. Tow the sinking swimmer to your boat while assuring him he’s going to be okay. Once he has calmed down, help him aboard. Return to shore for a hero’s welcome.
Five ways to stay safe while boating, according to the OPP
This article was originally published in the June 2009 issue of Cottage Life.
Related Story Paddleboard deaths are on the rise as sport grows in popularity
Related Story How to avoid 5 surprising risks of swimming in Canadian lakes
Related Story Cottagers weigh in on proposed mandatory lifejacket law