The Independent

The Canadian and US Coast Guard are once again warning thrill seekers the Port Huron Float Down is not safe.

Sunday, hundreds of people will hop into the water at Lighthouse Beach in Port Huron and make their way down the fast-moving St. Clair River to Marysville. This is the 50th anniversary of the 12-km event.

But Coast Guard officials on both sides of the border are trying to discourage people from going.

They say “the fast-moving current, weather conditions, water temperature, the large number of participants, lack of life jackets, and alcohol consumption” can “create challenging emergency response” and can result in serious injuries or fatalities.

One person drowned during the 2014 Floatdown. In 2016, about 1,500 Americans were blown into Sarnia’s waterfront and found themselves stranded without clothing or identification.

“This is an inherently dangerous activity, and participation is discouraged,” the Coast Guard says.

Officials say if you head out on the water anyway, wear a personal flotation devise, bring a waterproof bag for your legal identification, file a “Float Plan” with someone not in the event who will be able to tell first responders where you intended to go and take a paddle to help steer.

Officials add you shouldn’t take the trip alone nor should you be drinking alcohol.

The Coast Guard officials add they have “limited resources” and “cannot be everywhere at once.

“We rely on waterway users to look out for one another, act responsibly, wear life jackets, and refrain from alcohol consumption while on the water to improve the likelihood they return home safely,” the statement says.

The Coast Guard is closing the St Clair River to boats from noon to 6 pm Sunday to avoid any collision between boats and floaters..