Be Safe in the Woods

 

Wear blaze orange to increase your visibility to other hunters. All firearm hunters must wear a hat, cap, vest, jacket, rainwear, or other outer garment of hunter orange visible from all sides.

Mark all downed game with colorful flagging, an article of clothing or material: When field dressing or transporting a recently-killed animal, always wrap safety flagging, a brightly colored scarf or shirt around the animal's head or body. This action ensures that the animal will not be mistaken for a live animal while you are field dressing or carrying the animal.

Clearly identify the target and what’s beyond: Know exactly what you are shooting and where the bullet can land. If any doubt or safety risks exist, do not take a shot.

Point the muzzle in a safe direction: Always point the muzzle of a rifle or a shotgun away from people and toward the ground or the air.

Treat every gun as if it is loaded: Keep the action open and the firearm unloaded until it is required for use. Keep your finger outside the trigger guard and off the trigger until ready to shoot.

Always let someone know where you are hunting and when you plan on returning.