What's to do for recreation when a beautiful summer comes? For those who love going on an adventure and immersing themselves in nature, hunting and fishing may be the two most exciting activities. Although fun, the two interests are still hazardous, no matter how experienced the practitioners are.
According to data, over 610 fatalities and around 2600 injuries were caused by fishing in the US in 2019. Overall, in Canada and the US, about 1000 hunting accidents occur per year, and over 100 out of these cause deaths. Can you see how risky the activities are? Therefore, watching out for safety and equipping with surviving skills are of the utmost importance.
Below is a list of recommended safety precautions for fishing or hunting. Check it out now if you want a perfect journey!
Safety Precautions For Fishing
There are several safety precautions for fishers to follow, including but not limited to:
Pay attention to the boat's load and weight
Because of limited space in small kinds of ships, avoid putting too many unnecessary things. Otherwise, it would be inconvenient when fishing, or more seriously, lead the boat to sink. Besides, when loading stuffs, you should apply the weight balance principle. This means distributing objects equally throughout the craft, not stacking them, and not loading more things on one side than the other.
Learn to swim
If worse comes to worst and your boat is unfortunately sinking, swimming is the urgent safety tip. You can get yourself to the shore or anything out of the water to hold on to (such as a rock or a pole). By contrast, being unable to swim increases your risk of drowning. Of course, you have to wear a lifejacket, but swimming is still a necessary surviving skill.
Be careful of the environments
Fishing is absorbing, yes. But, do not forget to take notice of the weather, water condition, animals, and other boats around. Also, learn basic geographical and biological knowledge about nature. This helps you ward off accidents or finish your trip when something goes wrong.
Inspect the gear carefully
This is also a worth remembering fishing safety precaution. Before setting off, check if all the gears, engines, or paddles are functioning correctly. Fix any holes throughout the craft and replace broken things. You can try it out a little in the water near the shore before starting an actual trip.
Read More: What Should Sportsman Consider When Hunting From A Boat
Safety Precautions For Hunting
Besides fishing, hunting also has numerous safety tips that hunters need to know before starting the activities.
Make sure you are distinguishable from animals
Many reported accidental shooting hunting incidents had caused injuries and fatalities. In 2021, an 18-year-old in Southeast Alaska and a 20-year-old in Yell County died while hunting. One hunter was shot and then injured in Unicon Co.
Therefore, it is vital that other hunters not confuse you with their prey. Wear something recognizable, such as a jacket or a hat in bright color. Orange is a good suggestion.
Take advantage of a tree stand (or deer stand)
This tool provides a higher position for hunters to observe the area below panoramically. Thanks to that, they can see the game more clearly, detect any hidden hazards (such as baits or carnival animals) and avoid being mixed up.
However, you should be cautious if you use a tree stand. A large number of hunting accidents come from tree stand falls. Therefore, make sure you move carefully when climbing and descending the stairs or even while aiming your gun at the prey. A precaution for tree stands unexpected falls is a safety harness, such as an attached rope.
You can watch the video below to know how to use a deer stand:
Use your gun properly
Firearms bring you game - it is your best friend, but it may unintentionally kill humans - it is a lethal weapon. Every hunter needs to control their shooting skills; otherwise, it costs people's lives. Only load the gun when you need to shoot. If you want to drive a car, climb a tree, across a fence, clean the gun or just leave it unused, unload it. Always put your finger away from the trigger to prevent accidental shots which may kill others.
Read more: How To Help A Hunting Companion With A Deep Open Chest Wound In 5 Steps
Moreover, bear in mind the safe direction of the gun's barrel. Avoid aiming your weapon at other hunters (even just for fun). We all know what happens if your finger touches the trigger by mistake. When your gun does not fire and you want to check it, be extremely cautious and not point the barrel at yourself.
Be sure of your prey
Do not rush to shoot when the game catches your eyes. Your decision to pull the trigger can bring both positive and negative results. First of all, make sure it is your target, not a mistaken human. If it seems unsure to conclude exactly, never shoot. You'd rather miss an appealing prey than accidentally hurt anyone.
Moreover, notice the area around. If there is something between you and the animal, or behind the animal, for example, populated streets, be more careful.
Bonus Safety Tips For Both Hunters And Fishers
Here are some safety precautions that both hunters and fishers can apply for wonderful trips.
Prepare help backup from other people
You should go fishing or hunting with one or some friends. In dire situations, your companion can give you a hand. Also, always bring a phone and let your friends and family at home know about your trip. Send them your location and contact them for help if necessary.
First-aid kits
Injuries are unavoidable. It is essential to prevent your wounds from infection. Ensure you carry all necessary stuff to save you (and your partners) from bleeding in an emergency—for example, plasters, gauze dressings, scissors, plastic gloves, painkillers, antiseptics, etc. Additionally, you should bring enough food, water, a compass, a torch, and a whistle.
You can find other safety tips in the link below:
- Important Safety Consideration For Wild Turkey Hunting
- What safety precautions should you take when hunting from a boat?
Conclusion
After all, prevention is better than cure. Entertainment is the purpose of the activities, but security should be the uppermost priority. The recommended safety precautions for fishing or hunting above are worthing memorizing to have a safer and happier trip.
You should bring helpful pieces of equipment, practice the necessary skills and pay attention to the surroundings. It is better to be extra careful than run any risk of accidents, isn't it?