Top Tips for Waterfowl Hunt Safety
Safety should be every hunter’s top priority, whether they are hunting deer, bears, or fowl. Hunting on the water is very different from hunting on land, and it has its own set of safety requirements, and the risks associated with hunting from a boat can be mitigated by following just a few rules.
Gun Safety
Every hunter knows that nothing is more important while hunting than gun safety. Safeties should always be kept on until the hunter is about to fire, guns should never be pointed at something that a hunter does not intend to kill, and they should always be aware of anything that is behind their target. Following these rules can be more difficult on water than on land, especially while hunting from a boat. Many boats have very little space, and objects inside them can slide unpredictably when the boat is rocked by the waves. Firearms should always kept in a secure location while a boat is moving, to prevent the gun from sliding around. In small boats, hunters must also take care to keep their weapon in a place where it will not get jostled or accidentally pointed at a human.
Water Safety
Anyone who goes out on the water runs the risk of drowning. Hunters who want to stay safe should make sure that they wear a life jacket while they are on the water. Similarly, they should make sure that the rest of their hunting gear does not weigh them down or restrict movement so badly that they cannot swim in it. Hunters may want to invest in a float coat, which offers the benefits of a life jacket while also providing protection from the elements.
Boat Safety
Hunters who are using a boat should always make sure that their vessel is in good repair before they take it out on the water. The most obvious risk is the chance of drowning or hypothermia if the boat sinks, but there are several other possible problems. Getting stranded in the middle of a lake can be dangerous, so hunters should always make sure that their boat’s engine is in good condition and have a backup in case it fails. It can be very easy to get lost in swampy areas, so a good navigational light for the boat is also essential for safety. Finally, every ship should have a flare to signal for rescue in case of an emergency.
