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FLOODED WATERWAYS ARE HAZARDOUS – BOATERS URGED TO STAY AWAY
June 29 , 2006
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In the wake of continued flooding across parts of the Commonwealth, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) is reminding recreational boaters to avoid flooded areas and exercise extra caution in other locales.
“Boating on high, storm-swollen waterways, which are often choked with debris, can be very hazardous. Emergency and public safety officials are already busy with flood response – they don’t need the added burden of curiosity seekers putting themselves and others at risk by venturing out on flood waters,” said PFBC Executive Director Doug Austen.
High, fast moving water is a challenge for even the most experienced operators. Inexperienced boaters or those using small, unstable craft like jon-boats, canoes or kayaks need to be especially mindful of basic boating safety considerations given high-water conditions. Even a moderate current can exert a force of several tons, pinning watercraft against rocks, downed trees or storm-related debris.
Boaters venturing out in strong current must stay within their abilities and skill levels, especially in unpowered boats. Capsizing and falls overboard may seem like relatively simple mishaps, but in fact, they are the most common type of fatal boating accidents on Pennsylvania waters. The risks and dangers of capsizing are further increased in flooding conditions because of unusual hydraulics.
The PFBC strongly urges all boaters to wear a properly fitted lifejacket when on board a boat, even in good conditions. (In Pennsylvania, all children 12 years of age or younger are required to wear a life jacket when underway on a boat that is 20 feet in length or less and all canoes and kayaks.) The importance of wearing a lifejacket is much greater in high water situations.
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