WILMINGTON, DELAWARE (1/16/2016) Two duck hunters survived an icy plunge in a marsh area off the Christina River south of Wilmington this morning, but had to climb onto I-495 and flag down help, state officials say.
Jacin L. Allen, 27, of Claymont, and a companion were setting decoys from their 12-foot boat when the tide swept it into a large concrete culvert, Fish & Wildlife officals said. The boat was swamped and capsized, with the two men dumped into an adjoining pond.
Allen was later cited for negligent operation of a vessel and operating an unregistered motor vessel, officials said. He faces fines of $100. Neither of the men were wearing life jackets.
“Duck hunters with boats for waterfowling are urged to use caution in tidal waters, especially near culverts and tide control gates, a combination with the tide that can suck a vessel inside and lead to this type of accident,” said Cpl. John McDerby of Fish & Wildlife Enforcement. “This time of year, waterfowlers using a boat for hunting also should watch ice conditions and currents carefully to avoid becoming locked in by ice, which can complicate rescue efforts. We also strongly encourage wearing life jackets while hunting from a vessel, especially in winter conditions.”
Immersion in cold water can lead very quickly to life-threatening hypothermia, McDerby said.