For many, November means hunting season is upon us. Whether you are a hunter or not, always remain conscious when you head to the woods. Check out these tips to help you stay safe this hunting season!
If you are a hunter, wear blaze orange and become familiar with your firearm:
- Know how to carry it, load it, unload it, and know what to expect when you pull the trigger.
- Always assume every gun is loaded and always point the muzzle in a safe direction. Never point your gun at or toward another person.
- Never put your finger on the trigger unless you intend to shoot.
- Your firearm has a safety. Keep it in the ‘On’ position until you intend to shoot.
- Be sure of your target and what is behind it before pulling the trigger.
If you are NOT a hunter, wear bright-colored clothing and avoid white, blacks, browns, earth-toned greens and animal-colored clothing :
- Don’t forget to protect pets. Get an orange vest for an accompanying dog.
- Make reasonable noise so you will be easy to identify as a person. Whistle, sing or carry on a conversation when walking to alert hunters that someone is in the area. Sound carries well across woods and forests, and hunters should be carefully listening for any sounds of animal movement and will hear you.
- It’s better to not head into areas known as hunting spots until the season is over.
- Make your presence known. If a nonhunter hears shooting, the person should raise their voice and let hunters know they’re in the vicinity.
- Know the dates of hunting seasons. Learn about where and when hunting is taking place.
