(From James Beard, at the Clearwater Lake Corps office.)

PIEDMONT, Mo. – Hunting waterfowl places hunters on or near water. Even upland hunters at times cross streams and rivers. There is usually an emphasis on firearm safety, and rightfully so, but too little attention is paid to water safety and water-related accident prevention as each year hunters are killed or injured by water-related mishaps.

The two major dangers of hunting near water are drowning and hypothermia. By simply wearing a life jacket, practicing safe boating rules and dressing for the elements, lives could be saved each year.

Remember, cold water can be a killer! Cold water robs the body of heat up to 25 times faster than cold air. When hunting on or near cold water, dress in several layers under your life jacket. Dress to protect areas of high heat loss: the head, neck, sides and groin.

Before wading across a stream or other water body, study it first. Look for wide, shallow areas with sand, gravel or rock bottoms, which are usually safest. Avoid steep or cut-out banks. Avoid the main current. Watch out for floating debris. Rock-hopping or crossing logs can keep your feet dry, but rocks and logs can be slippery or they might not support your weight. A fall can injure you.

Just as any other trip it is important to spend time preparing. Know the weather forecast, become familiar with the area and, most importantly, let someone know where you are going and when you will return.

Hunting is a growing sport enjoyed by many Americans. So hunt smart and don’t become another statistic.

For more information on water safety or hunting around Corps Lakes or waterways, please contact the Clearwater Lake Corps of Engineers office.

For more information, or if you would like a map of the Clearwater Lake Project, write the Corps at RR 3 Box 3559-D, Piedmont, MO 63957, call 573-223-7777 or visit the lake’s website at www.swl.usace.army.mil/parks/clearwater/index.htm.