Photo US Coast Guard

Photo US Coast Guard

With the opening of duck season this coming Saturday NCWRC is urging hunters to be cautious around the water and to make it safely home after the hunt. With seasonal changes the ramifications of an accidental dunk into water can be deadly.

“Statistics show more hunters die from hypothermia and drowning than gunshot wounds,” said Capt. Chris Huebner, the state’s hunting and boating safety coordinator. “Home from the Hunt, a statewide safety campaign, encourages everyone to enjoy their time outdoors, be prepared and take the proper precautions, and come home safely.”
Hypothermia is the loss of body heat and, left untreated, can prove fatal. Exposure to extreme cold, such as being in cold water or wearing wet clothes in cold conditions, can increase the chance of hypothermia.

Whether you are using a watercraft or just wadding in water the dangers from hypothermia are real and hunters should take the precautions to prevent as well as have a plan and resources to deal with it if it becomes an issue.

Capt. Huebner recommends:
• Always wear a life vest.
• Don’t overload the boat, especially with passengers.
• Keep hunting dogs prone in the center of the boat.
• Never move about the boat with a loaded firearm.
In the event of capsizing or swamping, stay with the boat. It will still provide some flotation and will be the initial focus of a rescue attempt. Capt. Huebner advises all hunters to be prepared by:
• Wearing protective clothing.
• Carrying a cell phone in a zip-lock bag programmed with an emergency number.
• Filing a float plan; letting someone know your destination and expected return time.

Your safety should be paramount so please think about it and get “Home From The Hunt” safely. NCWRC does offer boating safety courses as well as hunting safety courses.

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