The Dangers of Kayaking Alone

Even the most experienced kayakers can get into trouble. Just like SCUBA diving, it is usually best to kayak with a buddy. The body of a missing kayaker was found on Lake Superior on Thursday, and identified by the medical examiner on Friday. This is another sad reminder that safety on the water is always the first priority.

As reported by the Duluth News Tribune, Authorities had been searching for Douglas R. Winter, a 48-year-old former Milwaukee Public Schools teacher, since his kayak washed ashore Oct. 20. The medical examiner has not yet indicated the cause of death. According to the local sheriff’s department, Winter was last heard from about 8:40 p.m. Oct. 19 when he called a friend to tell her that he was kayaking on Lake Superior two to three miles from shore, could not see land, and expressed concern that the waves were getting large. His family and friends said that Winter was an experienced kayaker.

Photo Credit: Duluth News Tribune