Local first responders are getting ready for the annual Port Huron Float Down on Sunday.
Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) Search and Rescue (SAR) Deputy Superintendent Kathleen Getty said it is an inherently dangerous event to take part in, especially if you don't prepare.
"And one of the main things is to have some form of propulsion," said Getty. "The water is cold and there is a big current, so you need a method to propel yourself out of danger and towards the shore. So we suggest bring a paddle."
The unsanctioned float down is scheduled to begin at 1 p.m. at Lighthouse Beach in Port Huron, ending at Chrysler Beach in Marysville.
Getty said for safety reasons, Transport Canada is restricting vessel traffic along the river from the Blue Water Bridge to the upper end of Stag Island.
"We do shut down the river starting at about 12 p.m. until about 7 p.m. to any commercial shipping, also to any pleasure craft and boats that are not part of the rescue group or rescue team," she said.
Getty said it's a coordinated effort among Canadian and US emergency responders.
"Part of that group is Ontario Provincial Police, the RCMP, Canadian Border Services, Sarnia police, Lambton County EMS, Sarnia Fire and Rescue and the Coast Guard Auxiliary, our volunteers that do search and rescue and support us."
Float down participants are encouraged to wear a life jacket and refrain from drinking alcohol.
"And take ID because if you end up on foreign soil, those officials are going to want some form of ID to ensure who you are and where you need to get back home to," said Getty.
In 2016, about 1,500 American participants were blown to the Canadian shoreline in a storm and required assistance returning to the United States.
Last year, authorities estimate about 4,000 people took part in the unsanctioned event.
Environment Canada's forecast for Sunday is calling for cloudy skies and a 60 per cent chance of showers.