A teen had a harrowing experience on the windswept waters of Lake Simcoe Saturday evening.
A 16-year-old on a stand-up paddleboard was pushed out "very far" from shore by strong winds near McRae Point Provincial Park, say police.
Concerned citizens called for help for the young male who was struggling in the choppy water.
Rama Police Service members along with Ontario Parks employees kept watch from ashore while the OPP helicopter was in the air ensuring an emergency was avoided and was on hand to provide quick response if needed.
Orillia OPP marine members were able to locate "the exhausted youth and escorted him safely to where his parents were waiting," notes a release from the OPP.
Orillia OPP want to remind people to check the weather before heading out on local lakes.
"Check the internet or your favourite app to see what the weather predictions for the day are," urges the OPP.
"Weather can turn quickly and if you see signs of inclement weather make your way back to shore or nearest land," police warn. "Always tell someone of your route and plan for the day and do not deviate."
According to the OPP release, water safety is "very important and educating yourself and your loved ones on what to do is important in making sure everyone makes it home. Tragedies happen and in most instances are completely avoidable if some precautions are taken to help prevent them."
