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Three teens without PFDs make it to shore after being reported missing

Teens were 'educated' by police about PFDs after all were found on paddleboard on Lake Simcoe
2018-06-22 Lt Gov 8 RB
Raymond Bowe/BarrieToday file photo

Three people without life-jackets on a paddleboard on Lake Simcoe made it safely to shore Sunday.

Shortly after 5 p.m., police were told the individuals, in their mid- to late teens, had not been heard from for hours. They were last seen on a paddleboard at the Leonard Beach area. The South Simcoe police marine unit and a drone operator were dispatched.

The three individuals were located by another boater at shortly before 6 p.m. and were returned to shore.

“They were cautioned by police and educated about proper usage of personal flotation devices (PFDs),” police said in a news release.

“PFDs for anyone on the water are required by law, and there must be one available for each person. South Simcoe police urge anyone on the water to educate themselves about water safety and regulations. Winds and water currents can change rapidly and even the most experienced people on the water can become vulnerable to inclement weather and water conditions.”