DOUGLAS COUNTY, Minn. — The Douglas County Sheriff's Office is reminding all watercraft users about the importance of life jackets after a boat carrying two adults and two children capsized.
The group of four was rescued after the county's water patrol boat and dive team airboat were sent to the scene near Bird Lake in Osaki Township on Saturday, according to a release from the office.
It was reported to responding units that the parties were having a "difficult time" staying afloat because their waders had filled with water.
According to the release, deputies arrived at the scene and rescued all four of the hunters, who were treated for hypothermia exposure.
None of the adults or children were wearing lifejackets and there were not enough life jackets for all of the craft's occupants, according to the statement.
"Hopefully, this call will serve as a reminder for all watercraft users to wear life jackets (or have them immediately accessible), have all children wear life jackets, and to have a life jacket for each occupant. Please do not sacrifice safety when participating in outdoor activities such as waterfowl hunting. Drowning is the leading cause of death for waterfowl hunters," said the statement.
