Hunting season safety measures

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – Hunting season is here, and safety goes hand in hand with the seasonal sport.

Warren RECC is sharing a unique perspective on hunting safety, with tips that include not shooting at power lines or insulators, and reminding hunters not to attach deer stands to utility poles.

Senior director of communications at Warren RECC, Kim Phelps says, “We certainly don’t want anyone to make contact with a line or anything like that, so just steer clear of poles, to begin with, but also putting things, nails or that type of thing into poles can also damage them.”

Warren RECC also tells WNKY that if you see any damaged electrical equipment while out in the field, it is important to report the downed lines.

Phelps says, “We certainly appreciate any help that we can get out in the field, we certainly love our members, and we want everyone to remain safe, so definitely if you see something, say something.”

Kentucky Fish and Wildlife says it is always important to survey your surroundings while hunting, know your field of range and what is behind your target if you miss.

Volunteer hunting education instructor for Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Dan Wilson says, “The important thing when it comes to hunting with modern firearms, is treating every firearm as if it is loaded, by keeping it pointed in a safe direction at all times.”

Wilson also advises wearing hunter orange to be visible to other hunters and not to load until ready.

“The safest thing to do is when you get in your stand or blind, or wherever it is you’re going to hunt from, don’t load until you’re seated comfortably, you’re where you’re going to be, and then, that’s when you load your firearm.”

Officials encourage participation in hunter safety courses and to become educated on the basic rules of the game, as well as hunter ethics if you are hunting on leased land.

More information on education courses and hunter education cards can be found on the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife website at fw.ky.gov.