Concerned citizens teamed up with police and Ontario Parks staff to rescue a young paddle boarder in distress on Lake Simcoe over the weekend.

According to the OPP, marine officers were dispatched to a call on Lake Simcoe near McRae Point Provincial Park shortly after 5 p.m. on Saturday (July 2).

“The caller reported that a 16-year-old on a stand-up paddle board had been pushed out very var by the strong winds and was struggling,” reads a media release.

Rama Police Service members along with Ontario Parks employees kept watch from the short while the OPP helicopter was in the air ensuring a quick response if needed.

“OPP Marine members located the exhausted youth and escorted him safely where his parents were waiting,” reads the media release.

Police want to remind people to check the weather before heading out on the lake ensuring your comfort and skill level on the water is met.

“Check the internet or your favourite app to see what the weather predictions for the day are. Weather can turn quickly and if you see signs of inclement weather make your way back to shore or nearest land,” reads a media release.

“Always tell someone of your route and plan for the day and do not deviate. 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.”