Wild Woman: Hunting Safety Tips
By: KARK 4 News
Updated: November 9, 2012
This week marks the opening of the modern gun deer hunt, Kirsten Bartlow from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission joins KARK's Mallory Hardin with tips on how to stay safe!
Up to 500,000 people will take to the woods this weekend hoping to bag a deer, and safety should be a priority.
Most deer hunting injuries result from a fall from a stand. To prevent this, always wear a full-body harness, especially when climbing in and out of the stand. Also, use a cord to raise and lower firearms and always have the firearm unloaded-- be sure to tell someone where you're going and when you plan to return.
Know your ATV-- know how to drive it, take a class, and read the owner's manual. Always wear a helmet and other safety gear. Most ATVs are not designed to carry multiple people, so keep the kids off unless they have training and are on an appropriately sized ATV. Be sure not to overload-- heavy game on an ATV can cause it to over turn.
If you're not hunting-- be sure to wear hunter orange (hats and vests) that can be seen in all directions. Do not wear white, this could be mistaken for a deer's tail or chest. Keep your dog on a leash and put an orange vest on pets too.
Watch the video for more information on how to stay safe while hunting.
