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Water is one hazard waterfowl hunters face that land-based hunters don’t.

For that reason, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks’ youth waterfowl hunting safety workshops focus on firearm, weather and water safety.

Montana’s waterfowl-hunting season began Oct. 4, following the two-day statewide youth hunt for pheasants and waterfowl on Sept. 27-28.

Here, as a refresher for all waterfowl hunters, are some of the safety tips included in FWP’s waterfowl hunting safety course.

Weather

Waterfowl hunters are a high-risk group for hypothermia because of their proximity to water, wind and changing weather conditions.

To stay warm and avoid hypothermia:

• Wear wool clothing or clothing that stays warm when wet, like some fleece products. Bring extras in a waterproof bag.

• If you fall in - go home! Or, take a break and change into warm, dry clothes.

• Control wind and wetness by using waterproof shells, jackets, waders and boots.

• Bring a variety of high-energy and high-sugar content food bars for quick energy and calories.

• Wear a hat. Most warmth escapes through your head.

• Your extremities are very important. It’s no fun to hunt with cold feet, hands or head. Bring chemical hand warmers for emergencies.

Boating Safety

While planning a waterfowl hunt, don’t forget to check to be sure the boat is in good working condition, with enough gas for the trip and equipped with proper personal flotation devices and other safety gear.

Here are some additional steps to reduce the chances of drowning.

• Make sure everyone on board has a properly fitted, Coast Guard- approved, life jacket or float coat.

• Never stand in an unsecured boat to shoot.

• Shoot only when at a natural, comfortable angle.

• Be aware of dogs, and other partners while in a boat - be extra careful with your gun. Similar to a blind, a boat is close quarters.

• Unload your shotgun when moving from place to place in a boat.

• Put your unloaded shotgun in a secured case. This keeps the shotgun cleaner and will remind you to unload the shotgun before moving.

• Floating gun cases earn their keep once the boat is upside down.

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