Editorial

Safety in the woods

Posted 12/1/22

The hunting season is still young, but Coldenham Fire and Rescue reports that they have already been called upon several times to rescue hunters from the woods.

We encourage everyone taking part …

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Editorial

Safety in the woods

Posted

The hunting season is still young, but Coldenham Fire and Rescue reports that they have already been called upon several times to rescue hunters from the woods.

We encourage everyone taking part in the various hunting seasons our area offers to take every safety measure possible. Some of these safety measures include:
• Inspecting tree stands and blinds for unwanted wildlife.
• Ensuring tree stands are properly and safely secured.
• Having a charged cell phone and gps device on hand.

• Carrying an audible device such as an airhorn to signal for emergency responders.
• Wearing at least one bright orange item so you are visible to responders.
• Leaving a note in or on your vehicle with your hunting location and a contact number for yourself and an emergency contact, and letting someone know where you are hunting and how long you plan on being there.
There are other tips as well:
• Dress defensively. Never wear red, white, blue or black while hunting turkey.
• Know the effective range of your gun.
• Always identify your target before putting your finger on the trigger.
• Never shoot at sound or movement. Assume it is another hunter until you can clearly see the animal.
• Stay aware of other hunters.
• Be sure of your target and what lies beyond it.
• Make sure your equipment is in good working condition and your firearm is properly sighted in.
• If you hunt on private land, know where the boundaries, houses, roads, fences and livestock are located on the property.
• Know and obey all wildlife laws and gun safety.
• If you are an inexperienced hunter, seek out experienced hunters from whom you can learn.
Hunting is not a dangerous sport for those who know what they are doing. Hunting accidents can be avoided by following simple rules.
Good luck and happy hunting.