Cooler temperatures and the changing color of leaves mean that fall is fast approaching, and with fall comes hunting season. During this time, many people will be heading outdoors in search of deer, antelope, elk, waterfowl, and upland birds along with several other kinds of wildlife.
Whether you hunt for sport, for food, or both, it is important to keep safety in mind while hunting. Hunting is a popular autumn activity, and here are some steps that hunters can take to ensure the safety of everyone:
- Know the area where you will be hunting and take a map with you. Check weather reports before heading out and have a plan B in place. Fall is often a time of unpredictable weather.
- Leave a written itinerary of where you plan to go, how long you plan to hunt for, and the expected date of return. Give your plans to a trusted friend or family member.
- Wear bright colors to make yourself as visible as possible. Avoid earth-colored clothing; choose vivid colors like hunter’s orange or fluorescent red.
- Take a safety course. Many hunter education classes are now offered online and include a field component.
- Make as much noise as possible. In order to announce your presence to other hunters or outdoor recreationists, whistle or sing while making your way through the woods. If you hear shooting nearby, call out to your fellow hunters to make sure they know you’re there.
- Be prepared for the expected. Don’t forget to carry a first aid kit, dry clothes, and extra food and water.
- Make firearm safety a priority. A large majority of hunting accidents happen because of hunter mistakes in judgment. In order to minimize those, treat everyone weapon as if it’s loaded. Be sure of your target and what is beyond it. Don’t point your firearm at anything you do not intend to shoot and keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to fire.
For hunters, it is critical to remember that non-hunters will be trying to enjoy the outdoors as well. Stay alert when hunting around trails and more developed areas.
Safety for Non-Hunters
Many of the same tips apply for non-hunters during hunting season. Consider wearing bright colors and stay away from animal-colored clothing along with black, brown, and white. Don’t forget to protect your dog as well with brightly colored vests or bandannas.
Make your presence known by whistling or singing. If you hear gunshots, call out to the hunter to make him or her aware that you’re in the area. It is also essential to be courteous of hunters by cutting down on unnecessary noise in order to avoid disturbing wildlife.
Moreover, learn about the area where you plan to hike or camp, if that is a prime spot for hunting. If it is and you are uncomfortable heading out, consider another place where hunting is not allowed.