Waterfowl Safety

Waterfowl hunters are among the safest of all groups of recreational boaters, perhaps because they understand the risks associated with hunting and boating activities during the cold season. The Division of Watercraft reports that of the six boating-related fatalities that occurred annually during the October-December period since 2001, none involved hunters.

Handling firearms and shooting waterfowl from a boat requires a special assessment of additional risks associated with hunting on the water in a cold environment. Unlike summertime fishing, boating and other water activities, the experience of cold weather boating and hunting appeals to a much smaller group of participants. Additionally, accidents that can result from improper handling of firearms are often much more serious than improper handling of a fishing pole.

As the fall/winter waterfowl hunting seasons approach, it is important for boaters and hunters to keep safety foremost in their mind to ensure these cold weather activities remain safe and enjoyable. Here are a few tips:

• Always wear an approved life jacket, vest, or hunting float coat that will keep you afloat should you unexpectedly end up in the water.
• Check the capacity weight rating of your boat and make sure it is properly loaded and balanced.
• Hunters must follow all boating and waterfowl hunting rules. Typically, one or more of these rules and/or safety practices were broken by persons involved in hunting and related boating accidents.
• Dress for the water temperatures, not the air temperatures, to protect against the effects of hypothermia should you enter the water.
• Avoid alcohol consumption at all times while boating and hunting.
• Be prepared to respond to any emergency that may occur on or near the water, including rendering assistance to fellow hunters and boaters.

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