Health & Safety In The Field

Game shooting has massively increased in popularity in recent decades.

The sport is enjoyed by thousands of people around the world from all walks of life. Not only is it a major resource for many, but also it provides healthy and natural game meat for the table.

Before you head out on your shooting adventure here are some important tips that all hunters should consider.

Gun Safety:

• Always treat a gun as if it is loaded.
• The only time you should put your finger on the trigger is when you are going to shoot.
• Make sure the safety is on until you are about to take the shot.
• If you are moving position, make sure your rifle/shotgun/airgun is unloaded.
• Never travel with a loaded gun in your vehicle. Make sure that the gun is in a slip or rifle case.
• Always make sure you have a safe backstop, and there is nothing in line of sight other than the target.

Shooting environment:

• Farms need to store a variety of chemicals on site, be cautious and identify any potential hazards.
• If you are shooting in a field be aware that the ground may be uneven, wet and muddy. Also make sure your feet are firmly set on the ground.
• Use a rubber mat or carpet on your shooting platform if the weather is windy or temperatures drop and begin to freeze.

Human error:

• Make sure you are in good physical fitness.
• If you shoot with a partner, make sure you understand positioning and signals. This is of particular importance at night when visibility is obviously limited.
• If you are not sure, do not take the shot.

Disease precautions:

• Vermin carry a whole range of nasty diseases that can be easily passed to humans. Precautions include wearing gloves and Wellington boots.
• Foxes carry mange which doesn’t affect humans but can be passed onto a Working Dog or family pet. They also carry tapeworms, roundworms, ticks and fleas. When retrieving a shot fox, always wear gloves.
• Rabbits carry fleas. Deer carry ticks, fleas, and lice.

It is advisable to carry with you a first aid kit and the following:

• Rubber/latex gloves
• Alcohol wipes
• Alcohol hand gel
• Disinfectant/disinfectant atomiser
• Soap/towels
• Grabber (the sort used for picking litter)

Disease prevention:

• Always wash your hands before eating or drinking.
• When retrieving shot quarry, check for any signs of disease or infestation.
• Once you’ve disposed of the carcass, disinfect all equipment. Dispose of rubber gloves.
• By taking these simple precautions, you’ll be able to enjoy many happy SAFE hunting trips!