Safety in the surf

[fishlipper]

I fish at night a lot, and have seen some people do crazy things in the spring, putting themselves in danger. Maybe I could offer a few tips:


* Fish with a friend, especially when the water is under 50 degrees.

* Be careful wading in the bays. Fix leaky waders before the season starts with urethane cement. If your skin is cold and wet, you are more likely to get hypothermia.

[paco33]

always keep a dry set of clothes and a towel in your truck

[stripercrazy]

watch the holes front of the sodbanks

[ledhead36]

If you go out in bad weather, and a fog rolls in, make sure you have a compass with you. People think it doesn't matter because you will always find your way back. Not in pea soup fog. A compass has saved me many times.

[williehookem]

How many of you have had real crap in your pants scare while wading ?

[hookedonbass]

I was wading one night last year in a spot beetween the rivers and the ocean, something a few feet long brushed against my leg. The water was murky, so I'm not sure what it was, maybe a small shark or a cow nosed ray.

But I did scream like a little girl, and did my best imitation of those TV cartoons where they walk on the water trying to get out of it.:scared: Made it back to the sand in under 30 seconds.

[Monty]

Waded out bay side in the dark and had a seal pop his head ouy of the water close to me. I was extremely startled.
Also while wading and walking slipping into a deep hole when the sand on a steep slope gives way under my feet. Didn't fall in, but was close enough to raise my awareness during every step I take now.

[vpass]

How many of you guys have, and use your PFDs? I'm thinking of getting one. I'm looking for a low profile yet very confortable that could wear anytime of the year.

[williehookem]

Cabala's has an inflatable life vest for $99. It is a Guardian model 2500. My wife has been hammering me to get one since I go on the jettys. I go many times at night and do a lot of fishing alone. I am on the fence about it. I wonder if it would really help you out if you get taken in.

[hookset]

13 Tips on Surf Fishing Safety

May 15, 2009 by
Kenny Graves
This article provides 13 tips on surf fishing safety that you should know.

- Surf fishing with a buddy; avoid fishing alone. Good fishing beaches can be remote, and the surf can be hazardous. A lone angler is at risk.

- Check the water conditions when you arrive. Know the stage of the tide—whether its flooding or ebbing. If the tide is high, ask other anglers what they observed about the contour of the bottom when the tide was low. If the tide is low, ask about the behavior of the waves when it was high.

- On many beaches, waves arrive in definite sequences, such as seven small waves followed by two larger ones. Take some time after arriving at the beach to observe the sequence of waves before making any quick judgments about how close you can get to the surf.

- Pay attention to, and don't exceed, the limits of your strength, agility, and endurance.

- Be aware of the surf's undertow. Never wander far into the water.

- If you elect to enter the surf, wear a PFD. Although it can be cumbersome, it can save your life should you fall or be knocked over in the surf.

- If a wave or the current overcomes you while you're wading, get rid of your equipment. Reduce the weight you're carrying, and gain a free hand or two to grab hold of anything solid.

- Large rocks or boulders may be inviting places to stand on. Avoid them. They are often covered with slippery marine vegetation that can precipitate a fall into the water, coupled with cuts, abrasions, and broken bones.

- Footing can be hazardous on stone jetties. Wear aluminum- or steel-studded sandals, called Korkers, over your wading shoes for traction.

- Always carry a first-aid kit.

- Look behind and to both sides of you before every cast to prevent injury to others.

- Carry a flashlight with fresh batteries when you fish at night Some anglers use a headlamp to keep their hands free for baiting hooks, tying knots, and attaching lures. (Avoid shining the light toward the water while you're fishing. It tends to scare fish away.) A headlamp will also help you avoid debris on the beach when you walk back to your car with both hands full of gear.

</U> Carry a cell phone. Let someone on land know the phone number, the location where you intend to fish, and the time you expect to return. Be aware of limitations of cell phone coverage.

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1738570/13_tips_on_surf_fishing_safety.html?cat=11
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</U>

[DarkSkies]

http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/winter/faq.asp





Winter Weather FAQs


What is hypothermia?

When exposed to cold temperatures, your body begins to lose heat faster than it can be produced. The result is hypothermia, or abnormally low body temperature. Body temperature that is too low affects the brain, making the victim unable to think clearly or move well. This makes hypothermia particularly dangerous because a person may not know it is happening and won't be able to do anything about it.
Hypothermia occurs most commonly at very cold environmental temperatures, but can occur even at cool temperatures (above 40°F) if a person becomes chilled from rain, sweat, or submersion in cold water.
Who is most at risk for hypothermia?



Victims of hypothermia are most often:

elderly people with inadequate food, clothing, or heating
babies sleeping in cold bedrooms
children left unattended
adults under the influence of alcohol
mentally ill individuals
people who remain outdoors for long periods—the homeless, hikers, hunters, etc.
What are the warning signs for hypothermia?

Adults:


shivering/exhaustion
confusion/fumbling hands
memory loss/slurred speech
drowsiness
Infants:


bright red, cold skin
very low energy
http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/winter/images/winter_pic_faq.jpgWhat should I do if I see someone with warning signs of hypothermia?

If you notice signs of hypothermia, take the person's temperature. If it is below 95°, the situation is an emergency—get medical attention immediately.


If medical care is not available, begin warming the person, as follows:

Get the victim into a warm room or shelter.
If the victim has on any wet clothing, remove it.
Warm the center of the body first—chest, neck, head, and groin—using an electric blanket, if available. Or use skin-to-skin contact under loose, dry layers of blankets, clothing, towels, or sheets.
Warm beverages can help increase the body temperature, but do NOT give alcoholic beverages. Do not try to give beverages to an unconscious person.
After body temperature has increased, keep the person dry and wrapped in a warm blanket, including the head and neck.
Get medical attention as soon as possible.
A person with severe hypothermia may be unconscious and may not seem to have a pulse or to be breathing. In this case, handle the victim gently, and get emergency assistance immediately. Even if the victim appears dead, CPR should be provided. CPR should continue while the victim is being warmed, until the victim responds or medical aid becomes available. In some cases, hypothermia victims who appear to be dead can be successfully resuscitated.
What is frostbite?

Frostbite is an injury to the body that is caused by freezing. Frostbite causes a loss of feeling and color in affected areas. It most often affects the nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers, or toes. Frostbite can permanently damage the body, and severe cases can lead to amputation.
What are the warning signs of frostbite?



At the first signs of redness or pain in any skin area, get out of the cold or protect any exposed skin—frostbite may be beginning. Any of the following signs may indicate frostbite:

a white or grayish-yellow skin area
skin that feels unusually firm or waxy
numbness
Note: A victim is often unaware of frostbite until someone else points it out because the frozen tissues are numb.
What should I do if I see someone with warning signs of frostbite?

If you detect symptoms of frostbite, seek medical care. Because frostbite and hypothermia both result from exposure, first determine whether the victim also shows signs of hypothermia, as described previously. Hypothermia is a more serious medical condition and requires emergency medical assistance.


If (1) there is frostbite but no sign of hypothermia and (2) immediate medical care is not available, proceed as follows:

Get into a warm room as soon as possible.
Unless absolutely necessary, do not walk on frostbitten feet or toes—this increases the damage.
Immerse the affected area in warm—not hot—water (the temperature should be comfortable to the touch for unaffected parts of the body).
Or, warm the affected area using body heat. For example, the heat of an armpit can be used to warm frostbitten fingers.
Do not rub the frostbitten area with snow or massage it at all. This can cause more damage.
Don't use a heating pad, heat lamp, or the heat of a stove, fireplace, or radiator for warming. Affected areas are numb and can be easily burned.
Note: These procedures are not substitutes for proper medical care. Hypothermia is a medical emergency and frostbite should be evaluated by a health care provider. It is a good idea to take a first aid and emergency resuscitation (CPR) course to prepare for cold-weather health problems. Knowing what to do is an important part of protecting your health and the health of others.
What is the wind chill effect?

As the speed of the wind increases, it can carry heat away from your body much more quickly. When there are high winds, serious weather-related health problems are more likely, even when temperatures are only cool.
For a Wind Chill Chart (shows the difference between air temperature and perceived temperature and amount of time until frostbite occurs), Wind Chill Calculator, and information on the updated Wind Chill Temperature Index, see www.nws.noaa.gov/om/windchill (http://www.nws.noaa.gov/om/windchill/).
Why are infants and older people most at risk for cold-related illness?

Infants lose body heat more easily than adults; additionally, infants can't make enough body heat by shivering. Infants less than one year old should never sleep in a cold room. Provide warm clothing and a blanket for infants and try to maintain a warm indoor temperature. If the temperature cannot be maintained, make temporary arrangements to stay elsewhere. In an emergency, you can keep an infant warm using your own body heat. If you must sleep, take precautions to prevent rolling on the baby. Pillows and other soft bedding can also present a risk of smothering; remove them from the area near the baby.
Older adults often make less body heat because of a slower metabolism and less physical activity. If you are more than 65 years of age, check the temperature in your home often during severely cold weather. Also, check on elderly friends and neighbors frequently to ensure that their homes are adequately heated.
What should I do if I get stranded in cold weather?


Tie a brightly colored cloth to the antenna as a signal to rescuers.
Move anything you need from the trunk into the passenger area.
Wrap your entire body, including your head, in extra clothing, blankets, or newspapers.
Stay awake. You will be less vulnerable to cold-related health problems.
Run the motor (and heater) for about 10 minutes per hour, opening one window slightly to let in air. Make sure that snow is not blocking the exhaust pipe—this will reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
As you sit, keep moving your arms and legs to improve your circulation and stay warmer.
Do not eat unmelted snow because it will lower your body temperature.
What is the best clothing for cold weather?



Adults and children should wear:

a hat
a scarf or knit mask to cover face and mouth
sleeves that are snug at the wrist
mittens (they are warmer than gloves)
water-resistant coat and shoes
several layers of loose-fitting clothing
Be sure the outer layer of your clothing is tightly woven, preferably wind resistant, to reduce body-heat loss caused by wind. Wool, silk, or polypropylene inner layers of clothing will hold more body heat than cotton. Stay dry—wet clothing chills the body rapidly. Excess perspiration will increase heat loss, so remove extra layers of clothing whenever you feel too warm. Also, avoid getting gasoline or alcohol on your skin while de-icing and fueling your car or using a snow blower. These materials in contact with the skin greatly increase heat loss from the body.
Do not ignore shivering. It's an important first sign that the body is losing heat. Persistent shivering is a signal to return indoors.
What should I eat and drink during periods of extreme cold?

Eating well-balanced meals will help you stay warmer. Do not drink alcoholic beverages—they cause your body to lose heat more rapidly. Instead, drink warm, sweet beverages such as hot chocolate to help maintain your body temperature. If you have any dietary restrictions, ask your doctor.
How can I heat my home safely?



If you plan to use a wood stove, fireplace, or space heater, be extremely careful. Follow the manufacturer's instructions as well as the advance home safety measures on page 4 and remember these safety tips:

Store a multipurpose, dry chemical fire extinguisher near the area to be heated.
Do not burn paper in a fireplace.
Ensure adequate ventilation by opening an interior door or slightly opening a window if you must use a kerosene heater.
Use only the type of fuel your heater is designed to use—don't substitute.
If your heater has a damaged electrical cord or produces sparks, don't use it.
Use fireplaces, wood stoves, and other combustion heaters only if they are properly vented to the outside and do not leak flue gas into the indoor air space. Make sure chimneys and flues are cleaned periodically.
Do not place a space heater near things that may catch on fire, such as drapes, furniture, or bedding.

[DarkSkies]

PeHPQSnhyig



combat water survival
http://www.scribd.com/doc/19769764/US-Marine-Corps-Combat-Water-Survival-MCRP-302C


Hypothermia stages:

Hypothermia is caused by the rapid, or slow decrease of the bodies' core temperature below 35.0 °C or 95 ºF. You might not have a thermometer handy in an emergency situation but you can always see signs of it without one. There are three stages of hypothermia.

Stage 1 - Mild to strong shivering occurs. The victim is unable to perform complex tasks with their hands. Blood vessels in the arms and legs contract. Breathing becomes quicker and shallower. The victim may feel sick to their stomach. They might often feel very tired and experience a warm sensation. You can ask the victim to touch their index finger to their thumb, if they can not then they are heading into stage two of hypothermia.

Stage 2 - Shivering is much stronger and almost violent. Inability to properly use musclesbecomes obvious. They have trouble moving and are mildly confused. The blood vessels in their extremities contract, causing their fingers, lips, ears, and toes to turn blue.


Stage 3 - This is the most serious stage and if you see any of these symptoms then you better get the victim to a hospital quickly. The shivering usually stops and they have difficulty speaking and thinking. The victim will often seem to have signs of amnesia. They can not or have extreme difficulty using they hands and muscles.

Walking is almost impossible as the bodies blood vessels have contracted completely to keep the important]alive. Any exposed skin will turn blue and puffy. Their pulse and breathing rates are slower. Soon their major organs will start to fail and once this happens the body can no longer send blood to the brain. Once this happens, the victim will have about five minutes until death. Get to a hospital!

So now that you know the signs of hypothermia you should know how to treat it. Simply put you have to get them out of a cold environment and into a warm one. This can be done by removing their wet clothes and replacing they with dry ones. Use yours if you have to. If you have to use your own clothes make sure you don't get hypothermia or you are just going to make a bad situation even worse. In mild cases of hypothermia you can just have the victim do some exercise to keep warm blood flowing to all parts of their body.

Be sure to find shelter from the wind. Keep the victim insulated from the ground by making a bedding of leaves, twigs, branches or whatever else you can find. Start a fire if you can. Let the victim drink warm non-alcoholic drinks and high sugar filled foods. Apply heat to the neck, armpits and groin area.

More severe cases of hypothermia require a more severe treatment. Try to maintain the body temperature of the victim using the previous methods described. Be sure to be gentle with the victim because rough or sudden movements like walking could pull their blood from their outer extremities into their core, causing shock. The best hypothermia treatment in severe cases is to get two warm people under a pile of blankets with the victim and create skin on skin contact to the torso.

The victim might want to go to sleep but don't let them. Don't try to increase the victims body temperature but only try to prevent it from decreasing. Make sure you have already called an emergency response team. If you haven't, then do it now. If the hypothermia victim has gone unconscious, check for a pulse. If there is a pulse then do not administer CPR, this can cause the heart to stop. If there is no pulse begin CPR immediately and hope the emergency response team shows up soon.

People have recovered from hypothermia in morgues after being declared dead by professionals. So be sure to keep them warm as long as you can. So never give up hope and with these tips you can save someone from hypothermia.

http://indianainfo.net/index.php?option=com_content&task=blogsection&id=0&Itemid=9

[bluesdude71]

Good post. As for Bear Grills, check out survivorman, he romps all over that wimp Bear. :bonk:

[buckethead]

It's always important to know how to get out of dangerous situations when on the water. Thanks for posting.

[paco33]

My fingers got wet tonight when I had to move from one beach to another and had to walk near some rocks. Not good it was cold. Thanks for posting this up.

[BassBuddah]

My fingers got wet tonight when I had to move from one beach to another and had to walk near some rocks. Not good it was cold. Thanks for posting this up.

It's also a good idea to stay away from or be careful near areas that have strong rip currents. If you get wet this time of year and have a long walk back to your truck, you could have frostbite by the time you get there.

[mick2360]

The video showed how quickly a bad situation can turn deadly. Grylls slipped and fell back into the water, submerging himself. With extremities quickly going numb, how many of us would have survived that. People who have experienced this type of sudden immersion talk about a calm that overcomes them several minutes into the experience....it ain't calm, it's death.

A more likely scenario is being swept in an undertow and losing footing....a scary proposition this time of year. I'm through night fishing for the season but many of us still get out before false dawn....let's be careful out there.

[Frankiesurf]

First off, Bear Grylls is a phony. Survivorman is the real thing. You ever notice how after a week Bear is full of energy and Survivorman is near death? That is because Bear has help from his camera crew. He has admittedly gotten food and shelter from them in his series. Survivorman has had nothing of the sort. That guy starves when there is no food and freezes when there is no shelter.

Another thing is in Hooksets post.

"Large rocks or boulders may be inviting places to stand on. Avoid them. They are often covered with slippery marine vegetation that can precipitate a fall into the water, coupled with cuts, abrasions, and broken bones."

How am I supposed to fish areas like M and Orient? With a wetsuit and specially modified Korkers, that's how.

Yes, Mother Nature can certainly catch you by surprise no matter how well prepared you are. Paying attention to your surroundings and the situation and being prepared for it will put you ahead of the game.

Bottom line is, if something doesn't feel right then don't do it. Keep your limitations in mind.

For instance, I am small in stature. I am not going to withstand the waves that someone who is 50 pounds larger than me will. I know this and adjust my game plan accordingly.

Do not go beyond your limitations. Everyone here knows what they are for themselves. While I may push mine occasionally I tend not to go over them. Most of the time:rolleyes:

[stripercrazy]

This is a good thread to revisit for the spring. Remember fellas it will take a long time for the ocean water to warm up. Getting wet in the spring when fishing deeper water will sap your strength. Be safe.

[dogfish]

</U> Carry a cell phone. Let someone on land know the phone number, the location where you intend to fish, and the time you expect to return. Be aware of limitations of cell phone coverage.


</U>

Excellent advice, having someone you trust know where you're fishing at night, if youre out there alone. I always leave a note for my wife letting her know the general area I will be out in.

[paco33]

rip currents - did anyone ever see this video, insane current coming together. I know fish love that, but it's too hairy for me.:kooky:

Ab12-o0QAiQ

[surferman]

That's nuts!

[dogfish]

I don't know if I would wear waders in that current. Or at the very least have a wading belt on. That looks like chaos.:eek: