Boating Accidents Cause For Concern

Drift boats, canoes and kayaks have been involved in numerous boating accidents this year and account for eight of the fifteen boating-related fatalities so far in 1999. The Oregon State Marine Board, Oregon's recreational boating agency, is urging caution when venturing into cold, windy, wintery conditions in the small, often-unstable craft.

"We are concerned now with waterfowl hunters," said Randy Henry, of the Marine Board. "Waterfowl hunters are more at risk of drowning than being involved in a firearm accident. We have a record flight of ducks and geese coming into the state now. The Department of Fish and Wildlife tells us that nearly 10,000 more hunters are pursuing waterfowl now than just five years ago, and many will be using boats to access the birds."

Henry says all boaters who venture out in the winter should take special precautions. "We've had several accidents this year where boats hit snags or debris and flipped," says Henry. "Wind, high or fast water and rough surf were factors in most other accidents. With most of these accidents, a life vest would very likely have saved the lives of those involved." Of the 15 fatalities so far, only two were wearing life vests, and only one had it properly secured.

Waterfowl hunters may face some of the largest risks. They often boat in remote areas, are out before or after daylight and wear heavy clothing weighed down with ammunition, waders and other gear. "Many waterfowl hunters use small boats which are particularly unstable, especially when trying to shoot, place decoys or retrieve birds," says Henry. "And if you go overboard, hypothermia is a greater risk this time of year, too."

It's also important to be familiar with the waters you boat. All boaters should carefully scout side-channels and rapids to avoid getting caught in log jams or other hazards.

Henry encourages power boaters to go slow and watch their wake. "A large wake can tip a small boat or send a wading hunter or angler into deep water. Slow down around other river users," he urges.

Of interest to all boaters are the new styles of life vests which are more suited to wearing over bulky winter clothes. The U.S. Coast Guard recently approved several makes of auto-inflating life vests which are more comfortable to wear and have little bulk. One of the best PFDs for winter boaters is a "float coat." It looks like a normal rain coat, but has flotation built into the garment. It not only provides flotation, but helps guard against hypothermia. These products are available from most sporting goods retailers.