Coast Guard auxiliary offers tips to keep hunters safe

Coast Guard auxiliary offers tips to keep hunters safe

Hunters that are engaged in hunting in and around water should be just as aware of boating and hypothermia issues as the average recreational boater. In fact, those hunters that use boats as platforms from which to hunt are boaters.

The Coast Guard Auxiliary encourages all hunters in and around water to follow these rules:

Wear a PFD (Personal Flotation Device - Life Jacket). A Type III Float Coat or Exposure Suit or Type V (inflatable).
File a float plan with friends, family or hunting lodge.
Don't drink alcohol before hunting/boating.
Check the weather before heading out and dress appropriately.
Take a safe boating course.
Make sure the boat is properly equipped - get a free vessel safety check by visiting http://www.boatsafely.org/.
Read this pamphlet by the United Safe Boating Institute: "Safe Boating Tips for Anglers, Hunters & Campers" at http://www.usbi.org/angler.pdf.

For information about safe boating, contact the local Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla @ http://www.boatsafely.org or use Flotilla Finder at http://ff.cgauxa.org.