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.