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Spring Water Safety Tips
ST. CLOUD -- If warmer weather means canoeing and kayaking, local officials have tips to keep you safe.
Officials from the Stearns County Sheriff’s Office report an increase in water-related incidents every spring, as water levels are high and water temperatures are low.
Officials offer the following tips for safe early springs on the water:
- Life jackets are required to be worn by everyone under ten. A wearable life jacket is required for each person on a boat, canoe, and kayak.
- All watercraft over ten feet long must be registered.
- A white light or lantern must be carried on watercraft. The light should be strong enough to be seen two miles away.
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If you find yourself overboard, officials suggest following the U.S. Coast Guard’s 1:10:1 principal:
- Try to float with the current and get your breathing under control for one minute.
- Take the next ten minutes of movement to assess the situation, signaling for help and planning your next step.
- Once you’re out of the water, spend the next hour focused on gaining your body heat.
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