Cleveland - It may be summertime, and we may be expecting air temperatures to hit ninety later this week, but the waters of Lake Erie are still cold.
Lake Erie's current water temperature is 65-70 degrees.
The Coast Guard says it considers water temperatures of less than 77 degrees to be cold, and "capable of quickly causing hypothermia".
It's recommended that, in addition to a life jacket, boaters whould dress for the water temperature and not the air temperature.
The Great Lakes waters can be unpredictable, and there's a danger of ending up in the water, which could turn deadly quickly.
The Coast Guard says that "unexpected entry into cold water can trigger a sympathetic gasp reflex, causing the inhalation of water and lead to drowning."
Boaters are also being reminded to file a float plan, telling someone on shore where you're going, how long you'll be there and when you expect to return.
"Having a point to start a search from can make the difference between a successful or unsuccessful rescue", the Coast Guard says.
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