Introduction and learning objectives

Acting in a safe manner while hunting means that everyone will return home safely. While there are many different methods and styles of hunting, the safety concerns remain the same. Every hunter should be aware of their skill level and capabilities as well as know their physical limits and respect those limits when they are out in the field.

The following are the unit objectives:

• plan your hunt and consider the most common risks
• assemble your backpack with the right safety items
• practice the S.T.O.P. technique, and know the Big 3 of survival
• administer basic first aid.

A safe hunter takes time to prepare and to practice using all their equipment before going out into the field for a hunt. Safety awareness should become second nature to hunters who consistently practice safe hunting.

Even though hunting and shooting are very safe activities, once a bullet or arrow is fired, it can never be returned.