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DNR urging boater safety

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Nov 20, 2012 at 6:17 am

ST. PAUL, Minn. (KNSI) With unusually warm weather this month, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is warning boaters and waterfowl hunters to not to let their guard down.

So far this fall, four people have died during the late boating season.

DNR Conservation Officer Greg Salo says low water levels are exposing several hazards - rocks, low wing dams, and stumps. Operators and passengers can be easily thrown overboard after coming into contact with one of those hazards.

Salo says while air temperatures are mild, the cold water can prove dangerous, or even deadly, especially if people don’t consider the consequences of cold water shock and hypothermia that can result from falling into water this time of year.

Salo says everyone in the boat should be wearing a personal flotation device.