Tag Archives: Fishing

General Safety Issues, Protective Clothing

NORTH TO ALASKA!

It’s always been my dream to go to Alaska, and someday, I hope to make it come true!  After watching the Discovery Channel’s “Deadliest Catch”, however, I don’t think I want to make any career changes!  It takes special persons, to make up the crews on those big fishing vessels.
The lures to become this type of fisherman are money and adventure.  There’s money to be made, depending on the total catch, and how it is divided among the crew.  Since the work is seasonal, the crews work hard to have successful catches.  Newcomers must get experience on other types of fishing boats, such as those fishing for salmon before they can get hired to work on the King Crab ships.  There is usually an abundance of work in canneries and processing, and persons such as students or teachers can enjoy the extra money during their time off from their regular job.
This is one of America’s most dangerous professions; the Bureau of Labor determines the risk factors, and commercial fishing usually tops the list of risky occupations, but there are others that have higher rates of occupational deaths.  From year to year, the lists vary, according to other resources that study occupational injury and death.  Usually the military has been left off the lists; however, because of the wars we are involved in, they have been included, and rightfully so.
While fishing off the Alaskan coast, the crews face turbulent seas, fog, falling overboard and drowning, icy waters, working with huge winches and hoists.  Another major problem is ice, which can form on the masts and decks.  Those who stay at sea for extended periods of time must be well prepared.  Fishermen must have warm clothes, rainsuits, boots, winter liners, and gloves.  If there is illness or injury while out to sea, access to medical assistance is far away.  Because the potential of injury is present, applicants should inquire about the safety policies and procedures the company has established, and obey every safety aspect of the work involved.
The coast of New England also boasts a huge fishing industry, with lobsters being the main attraction.  So, the next time you are in your favorite seafood restaurant, think about the effort and risks taken by those brave souls that furnish the delicacies we take for granted.
It’s always been my dream to go to Alaska, and someday, I hope to make it come true!  After watching the Discovery Channel’s “Deadliest Catch”, however, I don’t think I want to make any career changes!  It takes special persons, to make up the crews on those big fishing vessels.
The lures to become this type of fisherman are money and adventure.  There’s money to be made, depending on the total catch, and how it is divided among the crew.  Since the work is seasonal, the crews work hard to have successful catches.  Newcomers must get experience on other types of fishing boats, such as those fishing for salmon before they can get hired to work on the King Crab ships.  There is usually an abundance of work in canneries and processing, and persons such as students or teachers can enjoy the extra money during their time off from their regular job.
This is one of America’s most dangerous professions; the Bureau of Labor determines the risk factors, and commercial fishing usually tops the list of risky occupations, but there are others that have higher rates of occupational deaths.  From year to year, the lists vary, according to other resources that study occupational injury and death.  Usually the military has been left off the lists; however, because of the wars we are involved in, they have been included, and rightfully so.
While fishing off the Alaskan coast, the crews face turbulent seas, fog, falling overboard and drowning, icy waters, working with huge winches and hoists.  Another major problem is ice, which can form on the masts and decks.  Those who stay at sea for extended periods of time must be well prepared.  Fishermen must have warm clothes, rainsuits, boots, winter liners, and gloves.  If there is illness or injury while out to sea, access to medical assistance is far away.  Because the potential of injury is present, applicants should inquire about the safety policies and procedures the company has established, and obey every safety aspect of the work involved.
The coast of New England also boasts a huge fishing industry, with lobsters being the main attraction.  So, the next time you are in your favorite seafood restaurant, think about the effort and risks taken by those brave souls that furnish the delicacies we take for granted.
General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

LET’S GO FISHING!

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Football and basketball are over, and if you are one that doesn’t enjoy watching golf, what better way to spend time than fishing with a friend, your kids or grandkids?  Warm weather is almost here, so start getting that tackle box ready, clean up the boat, get your license, and let’s go!

Fishing, as well as any other sport, can be hazardous if you don’t keep safety in mind.  We have some common-sense reminders for you, just in case you have forgotten:

  • Always consider safety factors when you are choosing your fishing spot.
  • If you are in a boat, you and everyone else must wear a life jacket.
  • Know the weight restrictions of your boat, and do not overload it.
  • Whether in a boat, or fishing off the bank, stay away from areas that are marked “off limits.”  Their purpose is to protect wildlife, vegetation, and/or your safety.
  • Remember, “don’t drink and drive” applies to boats as well as cars or trucks.
  • Be sure to check out weather forecasts.
  • Carry a flashlight, water, cell phone, and portable radio.
  • Be sure to wear safety glasses and a hat.
  • Also take sunscreen with at least 15 SPF.
  • It’s important to wear tennis shoes, (old ones), to not slip, or get cut by rocks, hooks, glass, or other items that may be in the water where you are wading.
  • Look before you cast.  There have been many trips to the emergency room by folks that have gotten hooked.  (Another good reason to keep those safety glasses on!)
  • Use caution when baiting and removing hooks.
  • Handle fishing tackle responsibly.  Don’t leave any of it lying on the ground, dock, or boat.
  • Lastly, take along some insect repellent.  Our pesky little friends always like to go along on fishing trips, too.

Have a great fishing trip, whether it’s a lake, pond, or river.  There’s no better way to enjoy the outdoors and relax a little.  Just always play it safe.