Department Of Safety Warns Of Cold Water Danger

GILFORD, NH – With the arrival of warmer spring weather, boaters in New Hampshire are getting ready for another recreation season on the state’s lakes, ponds and rivers. But while the air temperatures are becoming comfortable for outdoor activities, water temperatures remain cold and could be life-threatening.

"Low water temperatures pose a special hazard for all boaters this time of year, but particularly for small craft such as kayaks and canoes" said David T. Barrett, Director of the state Division of Safety Services, which includes the NH Marine Patrol. "Anyone who capsizes or falls overboard can only survive for a few minutes because of the stress that cold water places on the body. It rapidly saps the strength of even a strong swimmer."

Barrett said water temperatures of 60 degrees or below are considered cold and temperatures currently are around 40 degrees in most New Hampshire waterways.

He offered the following tips for cold water boating:

• Paddle in pairs.
• Wear life jackets.
• Check current weather conditions and forecasts.
• Ensure that a responsible person knows your boating plans.
• If you capsize, stay with the boat.

"We have had several drownings and close calls on New Hampshire waterways in the past few days and cold water was a likely contributing factor in all of them," Barrett said. "The cold temperatures severely reduce the chances than anyone going into the water will survive."