On Saturday, September 4, 2021 at approximately 10:05am Huron County OPP received a call about a young girl that was caught in the wind and currents and was getting blown out from shore on a toy inflatable at Rotary Cove Beach.
The child was not wearing a life jacket and was approximately 50 meters from the shoreline.
The child was unable to get to shore on her own and the family members she was with were not strong enough swimmers to bring her back in.
Fortunately a 20 year old Goderich man that was out for a walk realized what was happening and leapt into action. He was able to swim out to the girl and was able to safely tow her back to shore.
The OPP has responded to several drowning this year and this event could have certainly ending up in a fatality had it not been for the life-saving actions of this man.
Huron County OPP would like to remind everyone of the following safety tips:
- Never underestimate the power of currents. Anyone who underestimates the power could be swept away instantly
- Open water is different than a swimming pool – distance is deceiving and you often have to contend with cold water, waves, currents, drop offs, sandbars, water visibility, undertow and underwater obstacles
- Always swim with a buddy and check water conditions before venturing into water
- Be aware of currents, water temperature and depth
- Wind and waves frequently come up suddenly posing threats to swimmers and boaters far from sheltered waters in lakes
- Obey signals and signs (such as flags) posted on the beach
- Lifejackets are like seatbelts – they only work when you wear them
- It’s not enough to have them just onboard. Wear them all the time when out on the water