Submitted by Doc_coletti t3_126x4oq in Maine
Comments
Doc_coletti OP t1_jebjjcb wrote
Life jackets, but also learn to swim. It was shocking when I found out how many fisherman in my town can’t swim, don’t wear life jackets, and go out alone.
ppitm t1_jebtg4z wrote
The ability to swim doesn't mean much in 35-40 degree water. You are likely to die even with a life jacket if they don't pull you out in a few minutes.
Doc_coletti OP t1_jebzqu7 wrote
The others literally survived because they swam to shore. I’m certainly not saying the other man died because he couldn’t swim, maybe he could, because as you say cold water kills. But the ability to swim is still prettt important for working on the water.
[deleted] t1_jeebs1v wrote
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Doc_coletti OP t1_jeebxf9 wrote
Did you even read my comment?
mainedpc t1_jedx8qr wrote
Don't know the details in this case but, you're right, we shouldn't be quick to make assumptions about swimming ability or even life jackets.
Cold water kills, sometimes even if the victim knew how to swim.
NoShip7475 t1_jebkc9o wrote
On a whole it's alarming how many people cannot swim. Honestly it's like taxes, insurance, first aid, etc. On the list of things we SHOULD be teaching in basic education.
Gilgamesh72 t1_jebuxzw wrote
I agree with you, 71 percent of the earth is covered in water your bound to run across it at some point.
Lieutenant_Joe t1_jeezx7k wrote
That sounds terrifying. Everyone should learn to swim, but it should be a fucking requirement for getting a fishing permit and I’m kinda shocked it’s not. I kinda doubt this was the issue this time (that water’s frigid this time of year) but like… what?
iglidante t1_jefd9xm wrote
You don't even need to know how to swim to buy and operate a consumer-grade boat.
LSalty1986 t1_jee6xuu wrote
Remember the 50/50/50 Rule:
If you’re 50 yards from shore, and the water is below 50 degrees, you have a 50/50 chance of making it back alive.
Adventurous_Hour5475 t1_jeec10m wrote
Very good rule of thumb. Although in Maine in March, it’s probably more like 10% chance of survival. Always stay with the boat if you can
Doc_coletti OP t1_jeec8sg wrote
The boat sank
Adventurous_Hour5475 t1_jeeccv3 wrote
Stay if you can.
ecco-domenica t1_jebhf5c wrote
It's very sad and happens all too often. Three people harvesting clams in a 12-foot skiff in a chop is never a good idea.
NoShip7475 t1_jebhs0e wrote
I remember clamming with my dad (rip) and we never went into the water. Now I see why he wouldn't. Since then I've seen people do all sorts of things but it's supposed to be a good time.
ecco-domenica t1_jee2c4j wrote
To be clear, they weren't clamming in the skiff; they'd just been harvesting at an island and were crossing the river back to land, presumably with a load of clams as well as the 3 people.
[deleted] t1_jedx2ni wrote
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DidDunMegasploded t1_jed5mxj wrote
> There were life jackets on board the boat but the three were not wearing them.
Another death that occurred by easily-preventable stupidity.
Wear your life jackets, folks.
NoShip7475 t1_jebe07v wrote
There is no doubt that just because it's not "deadliest catch" it's not dangerous.
RIP to the dude and peace to his fam.
Edit// a good reminder to everyone about life jackets.