OGDENSBURG -- The Coast Guard Auxiliary flotilla in Ogdensburg is advising boaters who may be preparing to launch their boats that water temperatures can still be dangerously cold.

It only takes about 10 minutes for a boater exposed to cold water to begin to experience deteriorated strength, this may cause boaters to lose the ability to pull themselves back into their vessels, according to Gaspare Marturano.

“It is important when boating in waters at these temperatures to avoid boating alone and remember to dress for the water temperature, not for the air temperature. Also, be mindful that children and smaller adults will succumb more rapidly to exposure to cold water,” he said.

Here are a few reminders and recommendations to assist boaters in planning spring outings:

• Avoid boating alone. Bring a buddy.

• Dress to swim and in accordance with the water temperatures – not the warmer air temperatures.

• While on the water, wear life jackets that are designed to keep your head out of water.

• The Coast Guard Auxiliary encourages all boaters to wear a lifejacket while boating. Find more information about life jackets at http://www.uscgboating.org/recreational-boaters/life-jacket-wear-wearing-your-life-jacket.php

• Provide a float plan to someone reliable remaining ashore to include your route, destination, number of people aboard and the estimated time of return. Ask them to contact the Coast Guard if a trip has gone beyond the return time indicated. Find more information about Float Plans at http://www.uscgboating.org/recreational-boaters/floating-plan.php

• Purchase and use a marine band VHF-FM radio. Many areas experience poor cell phone coverage, and VHF-FM radios provide a more reliable means of communication while underway. Most mobile phones are not waterproof, while there are many weather and waterproof styles of VHF devices available.

• Purchase and register a personal locator beacon and attach it to your life jacket. These beacons will automatically send an alert to rescue units if submerged in water.