Hunting

Hunting game animals has been around for thousands of years. It started as a way to provide for one’s family and has now turned into one of the biggest sports in the country. A fact people might not realize however, is that hunting can be extremely dangerous. Over one thousand hunting related injuries occur every year. These accidents range from deadly falls from stands to people being shot and killed by careless hunters. Many short easy steps can be taken to prevent these kinds of horrific accidents including proper tree stand safety, knowledge and training in fire arms, and having a specific layout of the land that is being hunted.

First of all, almost all hunting related accidents revolve around falling from a tree stand. Most stands are about 15 feet tall so a fall from this height is easily fatal. Manufacturers make harnesses to be worn at all times while in the stand. If hunters would wear the devices made to protect them, the majority of accidents could be avoided. Also clearing well around the ladder to the stand helps in climbing and prevents further injury from sharp stumps if a fall is to occur. Tying a string to the stand and hoisting the firearm up after ascending is also a key factor in tree stand safety. Having both hands free helps in a secure climb and prevents a gun from going off in case of a fall. All these tree stand safety tips are vital to a safe hunting environment.

Secondly, a misuse or lack of knowledge of the operation of firearms is a serious factor in hunting related accidents. Not knowing how a gun works or how far a bullet travels can not only be detrimental to hunters but to pedestrians close in the area. Free training courses are offered all over the country in all areas to educate people in every aspect of hunting with guns. Proper techniques on carrying, storing, transporting, and shooting are all key parts of keeping everyone safe in an area being hunted. Also the proper type of weapons should be used in the proper...