ODFW Advises Hunters: Be Safe in the Woods

Wear blaze orange to increase your visibility to other hunters. Between 1980 and 2000, there were 58 accidents in Oregon in which hunters shot individuals they mistook for game, according to Tony Burtt, ODFW hunter education coordinator. The victim wore blaze orange in only 10 of the 58 incidents. Of the 48 incidents in which no blaze orange attire was worn, 17 were fatalities. Blaze orange laws are required in 44 states and provinces, and all jurisdictions report substantial declines — up to 50 percent — in vision-related hunting incidents caused by the deliberate discharge of a firearm.

Mark all downed game with colorful flagging, an article of clothing or material: When field dressing or transporting a recently-killed animal, always wrap safety flagging, a brightly colored scarf or shirt around the animal's head or body. This action ensures that the animal will not be mistaken for a live animal while you are field dressing or carrying the animal.

Clearly identify the target and what’s beyond: Know exactly what you are shooting and where the bullet can land. If any doubt or safety risks exist, do not take a shot.

Point the muzzle in a safe direction: Always point the muzzle of a rifle or a shotgun away from people and toward the ground or the air.

Treat every gun as if it is loaded: Keep the action open and the firearm unloaded until it is required for use.