As the fall approaches, the country prepares itself for one of the most exhilarating seasons of the year: hunting season! However, as exciting and simultaneously relaxing going outside in the autumn for games could be, it comes with its fair share of setbacks. Accidents involving broken bones, compromised backs and even cardiac arrests are more common than we would like them to be.
Kind of alarming, isn’t it?
But worry not folks, we have got you covered! Below are some of the tips we recommend our readers to follow. So, before you jump outside and look for some game or buy a great optics for your Remington 700 rifle, let’s go through some of the things to keep you safe!
Beware of falls
Falls are one of the most common causes of injury during hunting season. They usually occur when the hunter gets caught unaware by animals while observing from on top of trees. Climbing without a safety belt and/or using permanent tree stands, are not-so-great practices you should avoid. Remember, a 15 to 20-feet fall is never a pretty thing for your bones!
Hence, functional safety harnesses and proper procedures while climbing tree stands are your friends. Check the safety instructions for the different types of tree stands you are using. Also, check which tree stands are appropriate for your specs according to the Tree stands Manufacturers Association.
Remember, better safe than sorry.
Keep Away From Alcohol
Cases have shown that hunters who consume alcohol are usually involved in more injuries. While this seems like a no-brainer, it still needs to be emphasized, especially as it could be a significant factor in issues like hypothermia.
Pack Smartly
As a hunter, you will need to be not just quick on your feet, but also with all the necessary things you might run out of! Make sure that the clothes you bring or wear are warm and layered, and do not retain moisture. Furthermore, use the right shoes which will aid your ability to run on the rough terrain.
Hopefully, food and water need no introduction, as they are literally your fuel for the trip! Keep a compass, in case you get lost; which is actually not that unheard of.
Do not forget to wear at least an outer layer of hunter orange as opposed to camouflage colors (brown, green, black). There might be other hunters around and you would not want to be mistaken as game yourself!
Also, pack the necessary equipment for your firearms; you will need them.
Keep in mind, you are going out in the wild – pack like it!
Inform others where you might be
Do not make the mistake of going out to hunt, incognito mode. Even the best of hunters could get lost at the worst of times. Let others know where you might be before going on that hunting trip. In the case of an unforeseen emergency, it might just be the most important thing you do.
Remember folks, hunting season is supposed to be fun, exciting, and satisfying. So, by taking the necessary safety measures, let’s keep it that way!