| 03-24-03
Spring wild turkeys hunters are reminded to make an annual review of
hunting safety rules a part of each spring's preparation. Based on studies
across the country of factors related to accidents occurring during the
turkey hunting season, there are consistent variables.
The shooters and victims were more likely to be experienced hunters
and were more likely to shoot their hunting partner than a total stranger.
Most incidents took place at 11-50 yards with the shooter failing to properly
identify the target and approximately 2/3rds occurred on private land.
Shooters, on average were 45 years old with 30 years of hunting experience
and 16 years of turkey hunting experience. Victims were 43 years old with
13 years of turkey hunting experience.
Indiana has not had a fatal turkey hunting accident in 30-plus years
of turkey hunting but we still average 1-2 shooting incidents a year. The
physical injuries can be serious and certainly the mental anguish extends
to the victim, the shooter, the investigating officers, and all their families.
It is the responsibility of each hunter to help make our state one of the
safer places to hunt wild turkeys in the spring. So make a copy of the
rules and hang a copy up at camp or keep a copy in your hunting vehicle.*
Most of all review it frequently before and during the season. Good Luck
and Safe Hunting. --Steve Backs, Wild Turkey Biologist
[*For
printer friendly version of Safety Rules, select Word
Document or PDF format.]
Some
Safety Rules For Hunting Wild Turkeys
-
Select a calling position where
you can see for at least 50 yards in all directions and where you are protected
from the backside.
-
Whistle or shout to alert approaching
hunters of your position. Never wave or stand up.
-
Never sneak in on a turkey or
use a gobbler call near other hunters. Never crowd another hunter working
a bird.
-
Never shoot at sound or movement.
-
Use a flashlight when walking
in the dark.
-
Be aware of turkey "fever" and
its prevention. Disregard peer pressure to bag a bird.
-
Be extremely careful using turkey
decoys.
-
Do not wear red, white, or blue
outer or exposed inner clothing.
-
Make sure your head net doesn't
obscure your vision.
-
Don't assume you are the only
hunter in the area. Be certain of a companion's location.
-
Know and identify your target
and what is beyond.
-
Discuss safety techniques with
companions.
-
Never assume that other hunters
are responsible.
-
Always keep your gun pointed
in a safe direction.
-
Always keep your finger off
the trigger until ready to shoot.
-
Always keep your gun unloaded
until ready to use.
-
Never use alcohol or drugs before
or while hunting.
-
Respect property rights and
secure permission before hunting.
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