Firearm safety reigns supreme Firearm safety is a primary concern, especially considering many hunters may traverse rugged terrain or dense underbrush to reach their selected hunting spot.
This creates the opportunity for accidental discharge caused during a fall or snag on vegetation.
Dykes recommends not loading a round in the chamber until you are settled at your hunting location and adhering to the following guidelines: Treat all guns as if they are loaded: While experienced hunters and firearms enthusiasts establish a level of comfort with the mechanisms of their weapon of choice, Dykes said one must never be complacent when handling a firearm. By treating all firearms as if they are loaded, hunters maintain an appropriate level of caution to ensure their safety and the safety of everyone around them.
Always keep firearm pointed in a safe direction: The muzzle of a firearm must always be under control. Never point a muzzle at anything unless you are intending to shoot.
Do not place your finger on the trigger until you are ready to shoot: In addition to keeping the gun safety engaged until ready to fire, hunters should never place their finger over the trigger until they have confirmed their target and are ready to shoot.
Always be sure of your target, as well as what lies beyond it: Never shoot in the direction of sound or movement.
A hunter should always identify the game animal and determine what lies beyond the animal before they proceed with their shot.
Beyond firearm safety In addition to the importance of proper firearm handling and safety, Dykes said hunters should incorporate several other safety precautions leading up to and during the hunt.
“Remember, as a hunter you are exposing yourself to the natural elements, which can be challenging,” Dykes said. “Furthermore, in many cases, hunters are positioning themselves 10 to upwards of 20 feet off the ground in deer stands. This requires added caution and maintenance to ensure safety.”
Check and replace deer stand straps as well as ladders and restraints on blinds: A 2022 study determined that falls from tree stands were the primary cause of deer hunting accidents in Pennsylvania, surpassing deer hunting-related shooting incidents.
Be aware of snakes during warmer periods of hunting season: Texas can experience warm weather long into the hunting season. Dykes said general awareness of where you are stepping or placing your hands is key to avoiding negative encounters.
Use insect repellent while hunting: In addition to pests such as mosquitos, ticks can be a scourge on many hunters. While ticks are most active during spring through fall months, they persist throughout winter.
Be aware of forecasted weather during hunting expeditions and pack or wear weather-appropriate gear. Individuals hunting on public lands in Texas must also adhere to Texas Blaze Orange Laws requiring hunter orange material and headgear to be worn.
Let someone know where you will be: Hunters should always let a close friend or family member know where they plan to be, as well as when they plan to return. In the event of an accident or emergency, this saves critical time in locating the hunter.
“With a bit of deliberate planning and mindful actions in the field, hunters can help ensure a safe and memorable hunting season,” Dykes said.