Hunting safety

By Chief Steven J. Wojnar
Dudley Police Department

Deer hunting season is just around the corner.  Since firearms and other weapons are used in this process, the risk of accidents and injuries is always present.  I was asked to provide a few safety tips for people to observe at this time.

First and foremost, protect yourself while out in the woods.  Wear the proper clothing.  This includes the appropriate material for the weather (rain, cold, etc.) and the proper reflective items.  This can protect you from hypothermia and allow you the best opportunity to be seen by other hunters.  Always wear the appropriate eye and hearing protection.  Guns are loud when fired and injuries from misfires are always a possibility.  Appropriate protective measures can save you from serious, long term injuries.

Avoid hunting alone whenever possible.  If for some reason you will be alone, it is important to advise someone of where you will be and when you are expected to return.  This will provide people the opportunity to locate you in the event there is a problem. It is also vitally important to avoid using alcohol or drugs before or during hunting.  This will impair your judgment and can contribute to accidents and injuries.

As for the firearms, they must be treated with the appropriate respect for their dangerous nature.  People should take a safety course and receive the appropriate training for the weapons they use.  Be certain firearms are in good condition and proper working order.  Proper maintenance is important with firearms.  In addition, hunters, and all gun users, must assume firearms are loaded at all times.  They should be pointed down or away from others.  Fingers should be off the triggers until such time as they will be shot.

When the time comes to fire your weapon, be certain of your target.  When a gun is fired, the bullet cannot be recalled in the event it is sent in the wrong direction.  It will hit what ever (or whomever) is in its path.  If you are out in the woods and hunting, there is a strong likelihood others are there as well.  Many accidents have occurred in the past. These unfortunately seem to take place all too often.  Observing the proper behaviors and using the best equipment at all times will limit the potential for these accidents and injuries.  Please do your part to make this season safe for everyone.

Thanks again for your questions and comments.  Please send them to me at the Dudley Police Department 71 West Main St. Dudley, Ma. 01571 or email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .  Opinions expressed in this weekly column are those of Chief Wojnar only and unless clearly noted, do not reflect the ideas or opinions of any other organization or citizen.