With many duck hunters anxiously preparing for the Sept. 27 Minnesota opener, the Department of Natural Resources is reminding everyone to think safety on the water, especially during waterfowl season.
In 2013, two people died in duck hunting related boating accidents. One fatality was caused by an accidental discharge of a firearm. Overloading, swamping, capsizing are the most common causes, while lack of life jacket use is the most common contributing factor. “The message is simple life jackets save lives,” said Maj. Greg Salo, operations manager, DNR enforcement.
A U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket is required for every person on board all boats, including duck boats. Plus, for boats 16 feet and longer, there must be one U.S. Coast Guard-approved flotation seat cushion on board, to throw to someone in distress. Life jackets are now made with the waterfowler in mind and are available in camouflage colors, including inflatable life jackets and belt-pack.
The DNR offers these water safety tips for duck hunters:
- Don’t overload the boat; take two trips if necessary.
- If wearing hip boots or waders, learn how to float with them on.
- Stay near shore and avoid crossing large expanses of open water, especially in bad weather.
- Share trip plans with someone and advise them to call for help if traveling party does not return on schedule.
- In case of capsizing or swamping, stay with the boat; even when filled with water; will still float and is more likely to be seen by potential rescuers.
The DNR has a “Water Safety for Duck Hunters” publication, available by calling the DNR Information Center at 651-296-6157 or 888-646-6367, or it is also available online.
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