Marine search and rescue on Lake Simcoe

On Saturday May 19th at approximately 5:30pm, South Simcoe Police received a call about three kayak's who were missing on Lake Simcoe. The Kayakers, all 12-years old youths had disappeared from the area of Innisfil Park.

Marine officers from the South Simcoe Police, York Regional Police and OPP conducted a search of the area with the assistance of the Canadian Coast Guard and located the youths. Police learned that the young men had decided to Kayak from Innisfil Park to Snake Island not realizing just how far it actually was. Police were happy to discover that all the youths, other than being tired, were in good physical condition and wearing lifejackets at the time.

Police want to remind boaters that conditions on Lake Simcoe can change rapidly and offer the following safety tips:

- File a boating plan with a marina, friend or family member, so you can be located quickly and efficiently should you run into difficulties

- Know the condition of the water before you go out and take into consideration changing weather conditions that deteriorate rapidly and may have an effect on water conditions.

- Always know where your children are when around water; never leave children unattended.

- Don't fool yourself into thinking that your child would never go near the water without permission. Children react quickly to things and often don't recognize possible consequences.

- Wear life jackets at all times.

- Carry a cell phone to reach police in case of an emergency. Police boats are available to respond to emergencies at any time of the day or night.

- Wear proper floatation attire and clothing when participating in a water-related activity.

- Ensure that equipment and safety devices are in good working order, including having enough fuel, prior to venturing out onto the water.