TULSA — The waterfowl hunting season is here and the Tulsa District U.S. Army Corps of Engineers encourages sportsmen to take along proper cold weather gear if they will be on or around the water to protect themselves from hypothermia in the event of falling overboard.

— The waterfowl hunting season is here and the Tulsa District U.S. Army Corps of Engineers encourages sportsmen to take along proper cold weather gear if they will be on or around the water to protect themselves from hypothermia in the event of falling overboard.

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary recommends the following gear to increase your chances of survival if you fall in the water:

• Flotation Coat – A flotation coat provides warmth and can serve as a life jacket. These are recommended for moderate air temperatures and cold water. It will not prevent hypothermia if you fall into the water, but will delay its onset.
• Immersion or Survival Suit – Survival suits protect you from the elements, and provide flotation and hypothermia protection if you enter the water.
• Dry Suit – Dry suits can be drawn tight to prevent water from entering, and are for intentional entry into the water.
• Personal Position Locator Beacon – Known as a PLB, this device can be manually activated if you enter the water and it will transmit a signal that allows rescuers to pinpoint your location.
• Personal Emergency Locator Light – This is an emergency light worn and activated if a person is in the water and can attract the attention of rescuers, providing a more visible target than your head in the water.
• Flares – Store hand held/or parachute flares in immersion suit pockets, secured with a lanyard.
• Whistle – A whistle can attract attention and increase your chances of surviving in the water. They are a good way to make noise without exhausting yourself. Be sure to choose a waterproof model.

The Tulsa District U.S. Army Corps of Engineers joins the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary in reminding you to use common sense when going cold weather boating. Choose clothing that provides thermal protection, dress in layers, wear a hat to prevent heat loss, and wear gloves. Wear a life jacket and hypothermia protection when boating in the cold. Have a good time at the lake and go home safe.

To learn more about water safety go to http://www.swt.usace.army.mil/watersafety/