Pennsylvania Game News - October 2011 - 44

threats of those contaminants on wildlife and human health. Special waterfowl hunting safety reminders Waterfowl hunters — whether hunting from shore or a boat — are urged to keep safety first and foremost in mind, said Keith Snyder, Game Commission Hunter-Trapper Education Division chief. “Basic firearm and hunting safety are critical,” Snyder said. “Treat every firearm as if it is loaded and make sure the muzzle is always pointed in a safe direction. Never place your finger on the trigger until you are ready to fire. Be aware of any companions’ locations at all times and maintain a safe zone of fire. “Make sure firearms are unloaded until you reach your hunting location and immediately after you are done hunting. Also, if you are using a boat, remember, state law requires all firearms in any boat propelled by motor or sail to be unloaded. Firearms should be cased with actions open.” Snyder also noted that, in Pennsylvania, all those using a boat are required to have a properly-fitted

personal flotation device (PFD) readily accessible. For more information on boating laws, regulations and safety, visit the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission’s website (www.fish.state. pa.us). Additionally, according to the U.S. Coast Guard, every year several hunters die from drowning and hypothermia. “When you have a crew of hunters, with decoys and equipment, and dogs, a boat can easily become unbalanced, especially if the wind comes up,” Snyder said, “Not only is it unsafe to overload a boat, exceeding the limits posted on the capacity plate is also illegal. “Sudden immersion into cold water is one of the leading causes of boating fatalities in the Commonwealth. It places a severe strain on bodily systems that can lead to hypothermia or, worse, cardiac arrest. Survivors of cold-water accidents have reported their breath driven from them on contact with the water.” Anyone falling into cold water should immediately ensure that their and any companions’ PFDs are intact, and then work to find a way to exit the

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Pennsylvania Game News - October 2011

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Pennsylvania Game News - October 2011