Hunting Safety

Hunting is safer today than at any time in modern history, largely because of hunter education and a few simple habits that every hunter follows.

Graphic of four hunting safety basics: safe muzzle direction, finger off the trigger, identify the target and beyond, and treat every firearm as loaded
The basic safety rules every hunter learns.

Firearm safety basics

Hunter education courses teach the same core rules. Treat every firearm as if it is loaded. Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. Keep the finger off the trigger until ready to shoot. Be sure of the target and what is beyond it. Unload firearms before crossing fences, climbing or entering a vehicle.

Blaze orange

Many states require hunters to wear blaze orange during firearm deer seasons and some other hunts. Bright orange is easy for people to see and is not a problem for deer, which see color differently. Wearing it even when not required is a good habit.

Checklist graphic of field safety: blaze orange, tree stand harness, sharing a hunt plan, water, light, first aid and weather
Field safety habits.

Tree stands

Falls from tree stands are one of the leading causes of hunting injuries. A full-body safety harness, attached from the moment the hunter leaves the ground until returning to it, prevents most of them. Haul equipment up with a rope instead of climbing with it.

Tell someone the plan

Before every hunt, leave a plan with someone at home: where the hunt is, who is going and when to expect a return. A satellite messenger adds a way to call for help where there is no cell signal.

Hunter bundled in a hooded coat on a cold, snowy morning
Cold mornings are part of the fun.

Weather and water

Hypothermia can strike in cool, wet weather, and heat illness is a real risk on early-season and desert hunts. Dress in layers, carry rain gear and water, and turn back when conditions turn bad.

First aid

A small first aid kit and the knowledge to use it belong in every pack. Courses in wilderness first aid are well worth the time for hunters who go far from the road.

Respect other people

Know property boundaries, ask permission on private land and give other hunters plenty of room. Safe, courteous hunters keep hunting welcome for everyone.

Hunting with others

Agree on shooting lanes and positions before the hunt, and never move without letting partners know. Wear orange when walking in and out, even during archery seasons, and unload before getting back to the truck. A short safety talk at the start of each day keeps everyone on the same page.

Safety is a habit, not a single lesson, and good hunters practice it every day in the field.

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