COLUMBUS, OH - As hunters prepare for the 2000 waterfowl hunting season which begins October 21, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Watercraft cautions hunters on the risks associated with cold water boating and urges them to prepare accordingly when hunting from the water.
Nationally, more hunters are killed each year in boating accidents than from any other type of accident. Hunting-related drownings are usually the result of an overloaded boat or an improperly dressed boater. By preparing for cold water and taking steps to minimize exposure risks, hunters can greatly improve their chances of a safe hunt.
Here are some important tips for those planning to hunt by boat:
Wearing a life jacket during fall hunting on or near water is a must. There are many styles of life jackets available in various camouflage patterns that complete the hunting outfit. Life jackets also provide excellent insulation against the cold, wind and rain.
Hunters using a boat must follow all boating regulations regarding capacities and required equipment. This includes having a wearable, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket for each person on board. Check the capacity plate of the vessel and be certain not to overload. Remember that decoys, dogs and hunters add a lot of weight quickly to a boat. Do not exceed capacity plate limits for weight or for the number of persons. Dogs should be counted as persons when considering the number of individuals on board. Spread the weight of the load evenly through the boat. An unbalanced boat can easily capsize or shift suddenly and cause a person to fall overboard.
To set out decoys, simply toss them overboard, remembering to keep the boat's load evenly balanced. Retrieving decoys safely is best done using a pole with a hook. Avoid leaning out over the water. Remember, to prevent capsizing, stay low and in the center of the vessel.
Stay seated or kneel when shooting from a boat. Standing to shoot can unbalance and possibly capsize a small boat.
Dress to protect against hypothermia, the rapid reduction of body temperature which occurs when boaters fall into cold water. Any water with a temperature below 70 degrees is considered cold enough to trigger hypothermia. In cold water, body heat is lost 25 times faster than in air of the same temperature. Dress in layers of clothing that will trap body heat even when wet. Polypropylene or wool are good materials for such conditions. Avoid cotton fabrics.
If you should find yourself in the water, relax and stay with the boat. Try to climb out of the water and on top of your capsized boat to wait for someone to rescue you. Do not worry about trying to salvage gear. Anything that falls overboard is of less value than your own life.
Do not drink alcohol. Alcohol not only impairs judgment and reflexes, but also dilates blood vessels, which can speed up the effects of hypothermia.
More than 38,000 Ohio hunters are expected to participate in this year's waterfowl hunting seasons which open October 21. Ducks may be hunted in Ohio's North Zone October 21 through November 26 and December 8-30. The South and Ohio River Zone season dates are October 21-31 and December 4 through January 21. Geese may be hunted in the North Zone October 21 through November 26 and December 8- January 9. The goose season in the South and Ohio River zones is October 21-31 and December 4 through January 31. A special late goose hunting season will be open January 13 through February 1 in 19 counties.
For additional information on boating or hunting in Ohio, visit the ODNR website at www.dnr.state.oh.us