(image: MN DNR)
Saturday is the Minnesota fishing opener. Today in Part 4 of our 6-part series, KRWC Radio News focuses on safety on the water.
Though many lakes experienced an early ice-out this spring, water temperatures this weekend will be very cold. That means it’s more important than ever to be sure to wear your life jacket…”Water temperatures are still dangerously cold, and an unexpected fall into cold water this time of year can cause Cold Shock Response. What that means is if you fall into the water unexpectedly, your body automatically gasps. By wearing a life jacket, you’re insuring that your head stays above the water, and it’s the one piece of safety equipment that can save your life.”
Minnesota DNR Boat and Water Safety Outreach Coordinator Lisa Dugan says there’s a simple rule-of-thumb on the “best” lifejacket…”The best lifejacket is the one you’ll actually wear. So whether it’s going to be an inflatable life jacket, a foam life jacket, just pick the one that works best for you that you’re actually going to wear while on the water.”
Dugan says there are two safety devices that are “must-haves” on any fishing or boating trip…”Two key pieces of safety equipment you’re going to want to remember are life jackets, and your engine cut-off switch. Children under the age of 10 are required by law to wear their life jackets, and adults should always model good behavior and not just bring their life jacket, but also wear it. And then anytime you’re out on the water, be sure to attach that engine cut-off switch in case of an unexpected fall overboard.”
Here in the Wright County area, some fisherpersons may try their luck on the Mississippi River this weekend. DNR Regional Fisheries Manager Brian Nerbonne says there are several things to consider when river fishing and boating…”Things are a little different fishing on a large river like the Mississippi. Because it’s a river, there are varying depths, and so people really need to understand that there are places where it’s not safe to be running a boat, particularly at a high speed.”
For complete information on Saturday’s fishing opener along with rules and regulations, visit the Minnesota DNR website at; www.dnr.state.mn.us.
