Over the years I have tried to spread the word about paddling safety and water safety in general. With the loss of a paddler this week on the Susquehanna River, during the coldest time of year, I thought it was time to talk about the subject once again. I have personally had some very close calls on the water, and have even lost my cousin in a paddling accident. I implore you to PLEASE heed the words of wisdom about safety when on the water… especially during winter! And please don’t think I am just aiming this discussion towards paddlers. Anyone around the water in the winter is at risk.
For instance, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is instituting new PFD regulations for the coldest months of the year, but a PFD really means little when you fall into frigid water. First, often we fish in rocky waterways. We also are typically in a flowing water environment. And unconsciousness occurs quickly after immersion into cold water (Not to mention a common gasp reflex, which can often cause ingestion of water).
So, what do these factors mean? Well, if one falls into a rocky, shallow bottom waterway like the Susquehanna River, the opportunity for unconsciousness from a head injury is greatly increased. Obviously, unconsciousness is life threatening, especially if you are in water. Then there is the issue of flowing water. If one falls out of a vessel in moving water, before one can react the vessel will be out of reach. And cold water causes serious reactions upon immersion. Shortly after immersion a person will become unconscious. And as mentioned, the immediate shock of entering the water often creates a gasping reaction.
What can you do? Well, the best thing is to avoid the water during the winter. But, as we know, the lure of the water is great and it’s tough to get through the winter without at least looking for fish a couple times. If you are getting on the water, especially in a kayak or canoe, dry gear is not just recommended, IT’S NECESSARY! Invest in a dry suit or a combination of dry pants and dry top. Yes, it may be a little pricey, but you will be around to pay for it.
Remember the buddy system! Never go on the water alone in the winter. And, it’s a great idea to tell someone on shore where you are going, and when you plan to return. A good two-way radio is also a great accessory, in addition to a cell phone in a dry bag. Another important thing to remember is that water temperatures rise much slower than surrounding air temps. On those unseasonably warm winter days, the water will still be extremely cold.
So please, ALWAYS wear your PFD, and ALWAYS wear some form of dry gear. Oddly, I was talking to my friend, Rick Wolbert, earlier. I thought to myself, I regularly have people ask me where they can get a good deal on a boat, kayak, or new rod and reel, but rarely has anyone ever asked where to get a good deal on winter safety gear. I guess people just don’t think it can happen to them…
Well, it can!
John “Toast” Oast is an American Red Cross instructor, is the publisher of Susquehanna Fishing Magazine and a member of the Ocean Kayak Fishing Team. His kayak rigging videos have received close to a million views, and been linked to websites around the world. For more information, visit http://fishyaker.com/ and his Youtube page at http://www.youtube.com/fishyaker.
