U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Public Affairs

Contact:  Doug Edelman
     Assistant District Staff Officer - Public Affairs

http://www.news.auxpa.org//
 edeldoug@charter.net 
636-379-0877
February 7, 2010

FOR
IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Boating Safety

By Doug Edelman,
Flotilla 3-13 8WR USCGAUX

Drowning after a fall overboard is the most
common cause of a boating fatality.  Hunters and fishermen alone in small boats
represent the highest risk of such an occurrence.
    In cooler weather, pleasure boaters’ numbers dwindle and the
lakes and rivers play host primarily to hunters and fisherman.  Oftentimes these
outdoorsmen don’t see themselves as “boaters”.  They are hunters and fishermen. 
The boat is simply a tool of the trade; viewed as little more than a means to
the end of bringing home dinner, a trophy, or a good fish story.
    Hunters and fishermen often fail to take the safe boating
classes offered by the Coast Guard Auxiliary or the US Power Squadron.  Wearing
a Life Jacket is often viewed as an unnecessary encumbrance upon their freedom
of movement – which they consider vital in the pursuit of their sport.
    Small craft are inherently less stable than larger vessels. 
Their center of gravity is more easily shifted by minimal movement.  A fall
overboard can occur easily, even without the contribution of a collision, bad
weather, or travel at high speed.
    Frequently a man in a small boat will stand up to relieve
himself.  This raises the center of gravity, sharply reducing the boat’s
stability.  As the boat shifts and rocks, he may lose his balance and fall into
the water.  At this time of year, the water is cool enough to trigger a gasp
reflex upon sudden immersion.  Inhaling water, he begins to drown. 
    Even where cold water immersion shock and hypothermia isn’t a
factor, a fall of this type still carries a high risk of fatality.  Hunters and
fisherman spend much of their time in shallow water around standing timber,
submerged rocks, and logs; as these are a great habitat in which to locate (or
hide from) their quarry.  Unfortunately, falling headfirst from a standing
position into shallow water around rocks and logs is a very good way to be
knocked unconscious and drown.  Falling from a standing position, one can also
hit their head on the gunwales of their own boat.
    While hunters and fisherman will frequently bring along a few
beers to drink while they relax and enjoy their activity, drinking alcohol while
on the water is ill advised.  After a couple of cold-ones, the need to relieve
oneself will probably arise.  Balance will be impaired.  Resistance to
hypothermia will be reduced.  Judgment will be diminished.  This is a deadly
mix.
    What steps can the hunter and fisherman take to keep safe as
they commune with nature?
    First and foremost, wear a Coast Guard Approved Life Jacket
at all times.  Having one on board but stowed under the seat will serve little
purpose once you’re in the water.  There are many types and sizes of approved
Life Jacket.  You can find one that is comfortable and won’t be too restrictive
to your movement.
    Bring along a suitable receptacle to relieve yourself into,
as this is much safer than standing up and going over the rail.
    Go with a buddy!  It’s more fun, and there’s someone there to
help you if there’s a problem.  When alone, you could be in serious trouble for
a long time before anyone even misses you.
    Use a Float Plan.  Make sure someone knows where you are, and
when you’re expected back.
    Save the alcohol for when you get home with your catch.
    Take a Safe Boating Class and get a Vessel Safety Check.  The
Coast Guard Auxiliary and US Power Squadron offer both.
    Have fun, and come home safe! 

The
United States Coast Guard Auxiliary is composed of uniformed, non-military
volunteer civilians who assist the Coast Guard in all of its varied missions,
except for military and direct law enforcement.  These men and women can be
found on the nation’s waterways, in classrooms and on the dock, performing
safety patrols, vessel safety examinations and public education.  The 29,000
members of the Coast Guard Auxiliary donate millions of hours annually in
support of Coast Guard missions.

###