Safety Information
Blue Ridge Mountain Trout Unlimited
Chapter #696
Blue Ridge, GA
2010
Cold Water Safety: It's a Matter of Life or Death
by Ralph Artigliere
2009
Safety First
2009Safety First
As community awareness projects the Blue Ridge Chapter of TU developed two Safety Awareness Programs. "TU Safety Signs" posted at all public access areas and a "Safety First" brochure. Both projects provide , first time visitors as well as all fisherman basic knowledge in Toccoa River tailwater safety. We invite you to review the signs at all public access points and pick-up a brochure from the Blue Ridge Chamber of Commerce next to United Community Bank and Arby's off Applachaian Highway- 515. in addition, brochures are available through our local sponsors - SharperBites through Blue Ridge Mountain Outfitters or Unicoii Outfitters located on Main Street in Blue Ridge.
Promoting Safety within our Chapter is front and center on our minds as we fish the tailwater of the Toccoa River in Blue Ridge. Prior to setting out on a day of fishing remember to always check the dam release schedule @ 1-800-238-2264, then 4, 23 or www.tva.com. Unscheduled water releases are common, so be a well-prepared fisherman at all times. There is no place for complacency on Toccoa tailwater even for the most experienced fisherman, as trouble can be right around the corner with rising tailwater.
HYPOTHERMIA PREVENTION: SURVIVAL IN COLD WATER
Hypothermia is a risk for anyone who enjoys activities like fishing, boating, skiing, or hiking.
Hypothermia occurs when the body’s core temperature falls below its normal level of 98.6F to 95F or cooler.
Hypothermia is dangerous because it affects the body’s core-the brain, lungs, heart and other vital organs.
cold water is especially dangerous because loss of body hear occurs 25 times faster in cold water than cold air.
Symptoms; Muscles tense and shiver, higher blood pressure, heart rate increases, respiration rates decrease, loss of motor skills, unconsciousness, and death.
First aid: Remove wet clothes, use dry clothes or blankets, warm body, using warm drinks, sweet, no alcohol, exercise body extremities, keeps head and neck covered.
Prevention: Dress warm, polar fleece or Gore-tex materials dry fast and hold in body heat. Always go with a buddy. Have a change of clothes available.
Wear a coast guard approved personal floatation device. Get out of the water periodically and warm yourself. If you think it isn’t safe you are probably correct.
Safety First