Are you excited to go out in the woods for the first time?
Just a hunting plan is enough to increase dopamine levels in your blood. Heading out into the woods, whether you get to hunt down the animal you’re looking for or not, is exciting.
In your excitement, remember that hunting poses risks, and accidents are common in the wild. To avoid any mishaps, the one thing that you should never forget is to learn safety tips and implement them when hunting.
Here are some of the essential safety tips you must consider as a beginner when going out for hunting.
Know Your Area
When you plan to go out hunting and select the area you are heading to, learn all the necessary details about it. Know about its geography and available animals and resources. Every area has its guides and regional regulations, and hunters must know them before starting their game. You can contact the concerned authorities on their official websites to learn about the local rules and regulations.
Familiar Yourself With Basic First Aid
Accidents can happen anywhere, and they are common in the wild. Falling from high platforms or hills, hypothermia, drowning, shrapnel, animal attacks and firearm injuries. Hunters are also at risk of heart attacks because of increased heart pressure while climbing mountains and continuous physical exertion. All hunters must familiarize themselves with basic first aid and learn how to administer hand CPR to help their fellow hunters in their time of need. Always carry an equipped first aid box with you while going out.
Prepare For Your Hunting Trip
Hunting trips should never be sudden or unplanned. Always plan for your hunting trips days before leaving and prepare for them. Make a list of essentials you’ll need depending on the weather conditions, geography and other considerable factors and pack your luggage accordingly. With your hunting equipment, always keep an extra layer of clothing, a map, flashlights, and portable charging stations to keep you safe in the wild.
Handle Your Firearm
As a new hunter, you are probably also new to using firearms. Learn to use firearms and practice with them before going into the wild. It is crucial to learn the safety tips for handling firearms. Always check if your equipment works correctly before leaving and pack it properly with ammunition and guns placed separately. While you are in the hunting area, always follow the firearm safety rules.
The firearm safety rules include:
- Keep the firearm’s muzzle positioned in s safe direction.
- Do not place your finger on the trigger until you need to shoot.
- Do not make assumptions about your firearm.
- Assure the area is clear before shooting the animal.
Hunt With Care
Yes, you read it right—Hunt with care. Hunting an animal requires you to make careful, emotionally controlled moves. Read all the specific instructions regarding the place and practice the safe shooting rules to ensure safe sports. Always take time and calculate all if and buts before pressing the trigger. Confirm your target, check where you are shooting and make it safer for yourself and others. A little care can save you and others from a tragic accident.
Wear Proper Hunting Gear
In old times hunters used to wear a specific colored safari suit when out hunting. The bold monotone is used to alert the animals by making hunters stand out in the forest’s environment. The times have changed, and hunters usually use camouflage dresses to hide from animals’ eyes. The camouflage uniforms crisscross pattern allows hunters to vibe with the environment and hunt efficiently.
Wear Eye and Ear Protection
Firearms are loud and create gases and burnt powder, which cause damage to the ears and eyes. Wearing hearing protection save your ears from loud noises and can protect you from permanent hearing damage. Eye protection keeps your eyes safe from gaseous irritants, burnt powder, or other environmental debris.
Know Your Game
Preparing your firearm, knowing the place or wearing your hunting uniform won’t bring any good if you are unaware of your game. Learn about the habitat and habits of the animal you aim to shoot down. Learn about their sounds, unique behavior, seasonal changes they observe, and all special traits. This information will help you target your game efficiently.
Be Vigilant
Can’t emphasize enough on this one. Be mentally present while you are hunting in the wild. Do not consume alcohol or any sedative medicine before leaving for hunting. Check the equipment and stands and use belts to ensure safety. Keep your friends and family informed about your location, and keep your phone on so they can know about your whereabouts. Be active, and do not get yourself in unnecessary danger.
Do Not Forget Your Hunter’s Orange
Lastly, always wear your hunter’s orange hat or a vest. This special piece of cloth helps you stand out in the wild, and other hunters in your group will be able to find you. Don’t worry that many animals, including deer, cannot distinguish the orange color and won’t run away from you. If you have a pet along with you, make them wear the hunter’s orange too.
Now that you know the basic safety tips, try following them and remaining safe in the woods. We understand you are excited, but controlling emotions is essential to avoid accidents and enjoy hunting.