A young man is happy to be back on land after a harrowing experience. Shortly before 5 p.m. Thursday, police, fire and paramedics were called about a stranded 15-year-old trapped on a bodyboard that carried him out into the lake off the Wendake and Wymbolwood beaches area. The teenager found the strong winds and lake conditions pushed him farther and farther away from the shore. A family member tried to assist but was unable to reach him due to the powerful currents and rough water. Finally, the teenager was able to safely make his way back to shore. Provincial police (OPP) confirmed that everyone was alive and accounted for. Simcoe County Paramedics assessed the situation and determined the teen was stable. “While this incident ended safely, the outcome could have been very different,” said Insp. Russell Elliott, detachment commander of Southern Georgian Bay OPP. “Georgian Bay is a beautiful destination, but its conditions can change quickly. Wearing a life jacket and being aware of current water conditions can save lives.” The OPP says it is using this incident as a reminder that Georgian Bay’s waters can quickly become dangerous, even for strong and experienced swimmers. High winds, rough waves, changing weather conditions, strong currents and undertows can create significant hazards and rapidly carry swimmers and recreational water users away from shore. The OPP asks everyone to take precautions when enjoying Ontario’s waterways: Anyone witnessing a person in distress on the water should call 911 immediately and avoid entering dangerous water conditions unless it is safe to do so
