Tragedy on Big Sandy

[ghotierman]

Even life jackets are no match for hypothermia. Be careful paddling this fall.

http://www.startribune.com/462/story/731627.html

Our prayers are with the family.

[Duffman]

I was up in the BW this past Sunday paddling out, it was a bear with that wind. This ol' body is feeling it today. My canoe partner and I discussed if we tipped, we would be in a world of hurt, that water was dang cold. It's not the time of year to take chances.

So be careful when either fishing or hunting out of a canoe this fall. You guys want to make the paper holding a state record fish, not as a tragedy.

[Powerstroke]

I can't think of anything worse. Even wearing life jackets they didn't stand a chance. I don't know the circumstances and I'm sure no one ever will, but in this case, its pays to know how to get back in a swamped canoe and paddle for shore. In water and wind this time of year a person has less than 30 minutes before hypothermia leaves you incapable of making decisions.

In Boy Scouts we were always reminded that they are called PFD's, not life jackets, cause they will keep you afloat even if your dead. Wearing a life jacket won't keep you safe if you make a poor decision to venture out in weather that is marginally safe.

[Duffman]

Another man drowned up on Knife Lake Sunday while canoeing, they recovered his body yesterday. It's not the time of year to take chances and prove that you're a tough guy. If you must paddle under difficult weather conditions, use your map, draw up a plan, stick close to shore and use islands and shorelines as windbreaks. And above all, know your limitations.