Minn. Officials Warn Of Cold Water Shock Danger

ST. PAUL (AP) - As Minnesota emerges from a hard winter, Gov. Mark Dayton has proclaimed Saturday Minnesota Cold Water Awareness Day.

Safety officials are warning about sudden cold water immersion and the deadly effects of cold water shock, which can occur within seconds.

The ice is out across southern Minnesota, and warm temperatures are not uncommon this time of year. But don't be fooled. Officials say the water is still dangerously cold and could quickly cause drowning. People need to heed the warning and stay out of the water, and wear a life jacket if they go boating.

Ron Jacobson is a founder of coldwaterwarning.com. He says his 9-year-old grandson drowned in April of 2004. He says his grandson was a good swimmer, but cold water can stop the best of swimmers.

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