MADISON, Wis. (CIVIC MEDIA) – Boaters and paddlers hitting the water this early Spring have hidden hazards to look out for, after flooding and storms in the state.

We’ve had it all in Wisconsin over the past few weeks… from an ice storm dragging trees to the ground in the north to funnel clouds and high winds south. Rivers have swollen over their banks, sparking flood warnings and the water remains frigid cold. With debris now floating in the rushing and rising streams, warmer weather is around the corner.

“People are always in a rush for that first paddle or fishing excursion of the year,” said DNR boating law administrator Lt. Darren Kuhn in a press release. “While the air temperatures might be warm, the water is just above freezing, and accidental falls overboard could prove deadly quickly as hypothermia sets in. Cold water immersion can lead to hypothermia more quickly than during the traditional summer boating season.”

When you fall into cold water, you’ll go into shock. It’s called “cold shock“. You’re body will freeze up and breathing becomes difficult or impossible. In some cases, you’ll go through instant cardiac arrest.

Right now, the Wisconsin river is about 40 degrees or colder, serious injury can occur in just a few minutes and death can happen in the first hour of being submerged. Our normal body temperature is 98.6. Amnesia sets in if our bodies fall to around 94 degrees. Then, you become unconscious at about 86 degrees, with death at 79 degrees.

In water around the freezing point, you’re likely to survive only 15 to 45 minutes with flotation, before the brain and heart stop.

Just below the waters surface there are likely branches and barriers, too. If you get caught in these, the rivers current will push you under water rapidly. Always carry a knife on you and keep your feet up if you fall in.

Boats also handle differently in these rushing currents from Spring melt.

“Boating emergencies can happen in the blink of an eye, and there isn’t time to get your life jacket on before danger strikes,” said Lt. Kuhn.

Check the weather before heading out, bring your phone or weather radio and stay alert for spring storms.
Dress in layers. Bulky clothing ups the risk of drowning. Heavy clothes absorb water and weigh you down.
Let someone know where you are going and when you’ll return home.
Slow down and look around.
Never anchor below a dam.
Stay sober.

After a cold start to the week on Monday, temperatures will be increasing every day for the entire week. Which means by the weekend, we are looking at true spring warmth settling in with highs hitting the 60s!

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