Hunting Safety Tips
Hunting Safety Tips
Tree stand accidents are the leading cause of hunter injuries in Maryland. Most tree stand accidents occur in the transition between a climbing device and the tree stand.
- Always practice and understand the manufacturer’s recommendations for use of any climbing equipment or tree stand.
- Keep all tree stands, and climbing equipment in good repair.
- Practice with stands, harness, and climbing equipment at ground level first.
- Use only full-body safety harness/fall restraint systems and a lifeline when climbing a tree or in a tree stand.
- Only climb healthy trees. Even live branches may give way under your weight.
- Use three points of contact with the tree or climbing device for a secure hold.
- Climb higher than your stand and step down onto it.
- Wear boots with non-skid soles to prevent slips.
- Use a haul line to get hunting equipment into and out of your stand. Guns should be unloaded and broad heads covered.
- Don’t fall asleep in your stand.
- Tell others where you will hunt and when you will return.
Firearms Safety Tips
- Treat every gun as if it were loaded.
- Never point a gun at anything you don’t want to shoot.
- Always control the muzzle direction in case of a fall.
- Keep the barrel and action clear of obstructions. Carry only the proper ammunition for your firearm.
- Be sure of your target and what is beyond it.
- Unload guns and open the action when not in use.
- Never climb or jump with a loaded gun.
- Never pull the gun toward you by the muzzle.
- Never shoot a bullet at flat, hard surfaces or water.
- Store guns and ammunition safely and securely.
- Never use alcoholic beverages or medications before or during the use of a firearm.
Archery Safety Tips
- Be sure of your target and what is beyond it before you shoot.
- Keep broadheads covered and only knock an arrow or load a bolt when you are ready to shoot.
- Never run, climb or jump with knocked arrow or a bolt loaded in a crossbow.
- Keep hands away from drawn crossbow strings and cables.
- Practice frequently with your hunting arrows and bolts to know your accuracy and distance limitations.
- Always use manufacturer recommended arrow or bolt weights.
Turkey Hunting Safety Tips
- Follow all firearms hunting safety recommendations.
- Call out in a loud, clear voice to announce your presence to other approaching hunters.
- Don’t wear red, white, blue or black colors that may be mistaken for the colors of a wild turkey gobbler.
- Cover harvested turkeys and decoys when carrying them.
- Stalking turkey sounds may put you and the hunter making them in danger.
- Protect your back from other hunters approaching from behind.