More than 300,000 hunting licenses are sold in Virginia each year, making the sport one of the most popular in the Commonwealth. When you combine its popularity with the inherent dangers of guns and bows—and include a shrinking hunting area due to increased suburban construction—safety first is tremendously important.
While hunting is considered to be one of the most dangerous activities for Virginians, it doesn’t have to be that way. There are several categories of hunting safety that sportsmen need to keep in mind. All of them are important and no steps should be skipped.
Sportsmen should remember the following safety tips:
General Safety Tips—Preparing for the Outing
Let someone know the area in which you'll be hunting.
- Scope out the area, focusing on landmarks, and carry a map. Be sure to bring a cell phone or radio in case of emergency.
- Pack a first aid or survival kit to carry with you.
- Make sure your firearm or bow is clean, in proper working order, and that you have the right ammunition.
- Check your tree stand and make necessary repairs.
- Obtain and carry all proper licenses and identification.
- Develop an in-depth knowledge of your hunting equipment and any limitations.
- Properly store firearms and ammunition when they are not in use. Treat every firearm as if it were loaded, every time.
- Develop good marksmanship so you are capable of hitting your target.
Safety Tips—In the Field
Wear orange and/or bright colors so that you are distinguishable. Camouflage may help prevent the deer from seeing you, but it also prevents other hunters from seeing you.
- Keep an eye out for dangers not readily apparent or at the top of your mind, such as snakes, poison ivy or difficult terrain.
- Be overly cautious and overprotective of children and young adults. They need guidance. Remember that you are the adult.
- Keep your firearms pointed in a safe direction whether they are loaded or not. Point them only at objects you intend to shoot. Never point them at your feet.
- The safety on the weapon should be on at all times, unless you are preparing to fire at your target.
- Know the location of all of your hunting partners at all times.
- Know your target and beyond that target. Be cognizant of where someone’s cattle or personal property lare located.
- Recover and tag the game you have harvested.
- Approach an animal you’ve hit cautiously. If only wounded, the animal is unpredictable. Evaluate all scenarios, including an escape plan.
If you are using a bow:
Never store and transport the crossbow in a cocked position.
- If the string or wire used on your bow looks frayed, replace it before you are out in the field.
- Cock your crossbow on the ground. Never attempt to cock it in a tree stand.
- Ensure that there are no obstructions that will hit the limbs of the crossbow. Make sure there is plenty of clearance for the limbs to move forward when shooting.
- Make certain that you have a bow that fits your strength. Use only the manufacturer's recommended arrow weights and length.
Hunters, whether they are experienced or beginners, should take a safety course. In Virginia, hunter education courses provide instruction in hunter safety, principles of conservation and sportsmanship. The courses cover many topics and prepare new hunters to enjoy their experience in the outdoors. The courses are free of charge. Anyone under the age of 16, or anyone 16 years or older who has been granted a hunting license must take a course.