...National Weather Service Cold Water Safety Message...

* The warm air temperatures this weekend in the middle to upper 60s
may cause people to underestimate the dangers of the cold water
temperatures, which are currently only in the lower 50s across
Sebago Lake and Lake Winnipesaukee, and in the middle 50s in the
regions smaller lakes and rivers.

* The cold water temperatures can quickly cause hypothermia to anyone
immersed in the water. According to the USCG, when the water
temperature is below 60 degrees, the average submerged person could
lose dexterity within minutes and be unable to accomplish simple
tasks like buckling a life jacket or operating a radio. Anyone on
small boats, canoes, or kayaks should plan accordingly if
recreating this weekend and use extreme caution to avoid this
threat. Paddle smart from the start and always wear your life
jacket!

* Due to Spring snow-melt and recent rain, area rivers continue to
run fast with swift water currents. The swift water can easily
overturn a kayak or canoe into the frigid river waters. Once in the
cold water, the strong currents will make it difficult to reach
safety.