In the state of Pennsylvania, hunting is a favorite outdoor sport for many. Unfortunately, every year during at least one of our state’s hunting seasons, there are several hunting- related accidents. To encourage the safety of hunters and those individuals who live near game lands, we provide the following tips.
- Never shoot at a sound or movement. Be 100 percent certain of your target.
- Make sure your shot path is safe.
- Never assume you are alone in the woods.
- Never assume that other hunters are acting responsibly.
- Never drink alcohol before hunting.
- Never wave or make sounds to make another hunter aware of you - this movement may attract fire. Yell in a loud voice and stay hidden.
- When sitting up against a tree or rock, make sure it is wider than your shoulders. This will prevent a hunter coming up behind you and mistaking you for a target.
- Know your state’s game laws.
- Never hunt alone.
- Always let someone know where you are going and when you are going to return.
- Be familiar with the area where you are going to hunt.
- Carry survival gear at all times (first aid kit, compass, map, fire-starter and high calorie food).
- Always be courteous and maintain self-control.
- Hold onto your gun. Never lean it up against a tree or any other object.
- If hunting with a tree stand, never climb while holding your gun or bow (use a hoist rope instead), and always use a safety harness when climbing or descending.
- Never use a tree stand if the trees are icy or wet.
- Review these safety tips with your hunting companions before going out!