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September 18, 2011

By Staff

NEW ? 6 a.m. Sept. 18, 2011

The risks of a boat capsizing, or falling overboard into cold water, pose major hazards for Washington hunters.

Most waters pose a hypothermia threat during hunting seasons. Nationwide, 70 percent of all boating deaths result from drowning and almost 90 percent of the deceased had not been wearing life jackets.

Hunters should remain aware of the dangers and follow simple safety rules from the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary:

• Leave a float plan with someone at home, describing the destination, your companions and the time you expect to return.
• Transport firearms to the boat unloaded, cased, muzzle first and with the action open.
• Always wear approved and properly fitted life jacket when in a boat.
• Carry a throwable flotation device in case someone falls overboard.
• Stow visual distress signals on board.
• Know the weather forecast for the area. High winds can be dangerous. Cancel trip if water conditions are not safe. Keep an AM radio handy for the latest updates. Better yet, buy a VHF-FM marine radio with NOAA weather channels.
• Never overload your boat. Load gear low in the boat and distribute the weight evenly.
• Always stay seated when shooting from an open boat.
• Never anchor from the stern.
• If an accident occurs, stay with the boat and use distress signals.
• Unless clothing is creating a hazard, do not remove extra clothing. It can help prevent hypothermia.
• To retain body heat, pull your knees to your chest and keep your elbows to your sides.

If you fall overboard without a lifejacket:

• Trap air in chest waders by bending your knees and raising your feet, then lying back in the water, can help you stay afloat.
• An oar under the knees and another behind the back and shoulders can be used to keep you floating.
• Trap air in hip boots by bending your knees and lying on your back, can help you remain afloat.
• Decoys stuffed inside your jacket will provide additional buoyancy.

Written by Staff ? Filed Under Local News?

Copyright 2011 by Issaquah Press Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, rewritten or redistributed without permission. E-mail editor@isspress.com

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