National Weather Service Cold Water Safety Message

* The warm air temperatures this weekend in the upper 60s to mid 70s may cause people to underestimate the dangers of the cold water temperatures which are currently only in the mid 40s on the lakes and in the mid 40s on the rivers.

* The cold water temperatures can quickly cause hypothermia to anyone immersed in the water. According to the Maine Warden Service, when the water temperatures are below 50 degrees, the chance of immediate incapacitation due to cold shock is extremely high. 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! close