People were canoeing and kayaking down the river when one of them fell into the cold water.
On Sunday, emergency crews were called to Riverdale Drive in Severn Township for a person in the local river.
Orillia Fire, Severn Fire, Simcoe County Paramedics and police arrived to brave the scene. Officials say the kayaker fell into the water and was able to swim to a small island nearby.
Fire crews reported that a neighbour ventured out in a small boat and rescued the kayaker. The neighbour brought the person back to shore where they were later checked by paramedics.
Local officials remind the community that if you are are venturing out onto lakes and rivers, always wear a lifejacket and let somebody know where you are going and when you intend to return.
“The ice melted off Lake Couchiching last week. At this time of the year, the water is extremely cold, and hypothermia can set in very quickly. The currents in the rivers are flowing very fast right now as well due to the spring melt and high rainfall,” said Chris Ferry, Orillia’s Fire Chief.
