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DWR Warns Outdoor Enthusiasts of Extremely Cold Water
Richmond, VA — The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) wants to warn outdoorsmen and women of dangerous water temperatures. As the weather gets warmer, more and more people will be heading out to get on the water; however, despite warmer air temperatures, water temperatures remain dangerously low for most of the spring.
Until summer, expect water temperatures to be much colder than the air temperature and plan accordingly. It is important to dress for the water temperature and wear your life jacket when boating should an accident occur. Wearing a life jacket is critical should you fall into cold water. Your body’s first reflex is to gasp for air, which increases the chance of drowning, especially if you are not wearing a life jacket.
Weather conditions and a marine forecast can be found on the National Weather Service website. The United States Geological Survey has water temperatures for some inland lakes and rivers.
No one plans to take a dip this time a year, but it’s important to protect yourself by preparing for the worst – wear warm clothes and a life jacket.
For more information on boating, boating education and water safety, please visit: https://virginiawildlife.gov/boating/.