HUNTER SAFETY CONCERNS

        The hunting seasons are fast upon us for another year. We are approaching the time when we see many more sportsmen and women afield than during the rest of the year. The issue that should be foremost in all of our minds is that of safety when going into the outdoors. I believe this issue can be broken down into three areas; preparedness, visibility and state of mind.

(Successful hunt because of preparations made)

        Preparedness is that aspect of how knowledgeable and how fit you are to go into the woods in the first place. This is both cognitive and physical in nature. Cognitive or knowledge of what is stored in your mind and can be retrieved as needed. There is no one thing here, but it may include knowing the game laws so you don’t do anything questionable while afield. It may be knowing proper gun handling and hunting etiquette so that you do not endanger another or yourself.
A good example of this is in turkey hunting. Are you aware that since we hunt completely in camo that when you spot another hunter you should not try to alert them by waving your hand. Just speak aloud and they will hear and recognize you. Also you are recommended not to wear red, white or blue colors while turkey hunting. These are the colors of a gobbler during the spring mating.
The physical is self explanatory. You should be in relatively good shape physically because hunting does tax you physically. A simple daily walking program can help your aerobic health a great deal and make you fit for hunting.
Visibility is the second area of safety concern. For the most part, it is a no brainer, hunters should be wearing hunter orange while hunting most game. Deer hunting or small game hunting, anytime with the exclusion of waterfowl and turkey hunting I believe it is only sensible to wear a good amount of hunter orange. Notice I keep saying hunter orange. Hunter orange is the only color that has proven effective in low light or anytime hunting. It is seen and identified as not being natural to the outdoors. All states find that hunting related accidents decrease when hunter orange is worn. Other colors just don’t cut it!

(Hunter orange really shows up)

Third, the state of mind, is extremely important. By this I am referring to the very basics as to why you hunt in the first place. Because of its nature, the hunt should be all that is on your mind at the time. Do not let your mind wander while you are hunting. That is one way that accidents happen. Also, do not try hunting while you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This is just plain foolish. We have encountered those in the woods that were very much under the influence of alcohol at times and immediately removed ourselves from their vicinity.

(It is nice for father and son to tag bucks on the same hunt, just don't compete)

Above all, do not let yourself be pulled into that whole competition scheme that some hunters have going. You know what I mean, “Joe got a nice buck last weekend and now the pressures on for me to get one or the rest will think less of me!” There is no place for that kind of competition in hunting. Chances are taken under those conditions that should never be taken. Remember one thing, once you pull the trigger on either shotgun or rifle, there is no calling back the shot. It is on it’s way!
I hope you have many excellent hunts this fall, but hunt smart and hunt safely.