While there are fewer people on the water in the winter, that doesn't mean disasters are any less likely to happen. The Missouri State Water Patrol offers some tips for staying on the water during these cold months. KSMU's Alvin Chen reports.
Sergeant Gerard Callahan is a spokesperson for the Missouri Water Patrol. He says cold water shock and hypothermia are the areas of most concern for winter boaters.
Cold water shock is the more immediate concern. It occurs when exposure of the head and chest to cold water causes an involuntary gasping reflex.
Hypothermia is also a potential danger. It occurs when body temperature drops below normal temperature. This can occur if a boater falls into cold water.
Callahan says it’s important to first of all dress in layers when on the water so that you can remove outer clothes if the air is warm.
Callahan also talks about the importance of wearing a life jacket.
Other tips include never overload your boats especially in the winter, and have a plan in case an emergency occurs.
For KSMU News, I’m Alvin Chen.
