Louisiana – The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) is urging hunters to prioritize safety as a winter storm system brings freezing temperatures, snow, and ice across the state. The National Weather Service has issued cold weather advisories and extreme cold warnings for Louisiana from Monday, January 20 through Thursday, January 23. Due to the potentially hazardous conditions, all hunters and outdoorsmen are advised to avoid travel to Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) and use extreme caution if planning to be outdoors.
The LDWF recommends the following safety tips:
– **Travel safety**: Stay off the roads if conditions are dangerous and follow all road closures.
– **Inform others**: Let someone know your hunting location and expected return time.
– **Layer up**: Dress in moisture-wicking layers to stay dry, add insulation for warmth, and wear a waterproof outer layer to block wind and rain.
– **Protect your feet**: Insulated, waterproof boots and thick wool socks are essential to avoid frostbite.
– **Stay hydrated**: Dehydration can happen even in cold weather, so bring water or a warm drink in a thermos.
– **Pack smart**: Bring a fully charged phone, a map, compass, and a GPS in case of emergencies. Ensure your vehicle is equipped with emergency supplies, including jumper cables, a flashlight, a blanket, and an ice scraper.
– **Avoid overheating**: Overheating can lead to sweating, which increases heat loss. Remove layers as needed during intense activity.
– **Be fire-ready**: Carry materials to start a fire in case you need warmth unexpectedly.
– **Know the signs**: Learn to recognize symptoms of frostbite and hypothermia, such as shivering, numbness, slurred speech, and confusion.
The LDWF emphasizes the importance of being prepared and making safety a top priority during these challenging weather conditions.