Hunting Safety Tips for Outfitters

As the leaves begin to fall and the brisk air greets us with cooler temperatures, hunting season is in full swing. As excitement fills the air, remember when you or your guests, especially if they are novice, are using firearms or bows, your potential risk can significantly increase. Keep your hunting experience not only fun, but safe for your guests. Checkoff these safety tips to help minimize potential risks. 

Firearm Safety

Hunting with a group comes with more risks than going alone. Guides and guests must pay attention to the people around them and their surroundings.

All hunters are expected to practice safe firearm handling. However, outfitters and guides should be on the lookout for potential danger. They are the extra eye preventing potential risk. It’s not a bad idea to review firearm safety rules before heading out.

Keep the following in mind:

1. Always keep your firearm pointed in a safe direction.

2. Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot.

3. Treat every firearm as if it is loaded.

4. Before taking the shot, clearly identify your target and check surrounding area.

Don’t forget to pack a well-stocked first aid kit before leaving the lodge just in case something does happen!

Deer Stands

If your team uses deer stands, make sure to read the instructions so they are properly placed. Always check for faulty equipment before going out. Deer stands can be fatal if misused or have a broken piece. Most deer stand accidents stem from a step in the ladder breaking and the hunter falling. It is extremely wise to place your hunters in  harnesses  before they climb up onto the stand to help reduce any risks.

Inclement Weather

Before stepping out, check the weather forecast to make sure there are no surprises with the weather. If  wildfire season  is going on while hunting, check the air quality and the reports to see if many animals have been displaced. It may not be the appropriate time to hunt.

Don’t forget that being outside for long periods of time can get cold and dangerous. Make sure your guides and hunting guests are dressed in warm layers to reduce the risk of hypothermia. Recommend water repelling clothing rather than moisture-retaining cotton to your guests. You never know when it might rain or snow out on the trail.

Companion Safety

When hunting with others, guides must act like supervisors. No matter what, safety should be first priority even when it comes down to the trail you take. Outfitters should closely look at what is happening on the field with a risk management mindset.

It is wise to section large groups by using the buddy system. Beyond that, everyone should have strong communication skills if they decide to change their hunting routine or path in the middle of a hunt. Upon beginning, establish a map that shows where everyone will be hunting along with an emergency plan.

Advise your guests to dress in bright clothing. When shooting with a group, it is best to avoid neutral or camouflage patterns. Wearing bright clothing like Hunter Orange, Neon Pink or Hunter Safety Green is one of the best ways to see everyone out on the hunt. Follow your local and  state guidelines  when wearing hunting safety colors.

Protected At All Costs

Outfitters have to go beyond basic safety tips when out on the field. They are expected to pay attention to the finer details to keep their guests safe. Leave insuring your business’ safety to us. Get the protection you need today and  request a free CBIZ Sattler Adventure Sport Insurance quote.  Adventure more and worry less with the right coverage!

This blog may contain scenarios that are provided as examples only. In an actual claim situation, coverage is subject to the terms, conditions and exclusions of the policy issued. The information provided is general in nature and may be affected by changes in law or the interpretation of such laws. The reader is advised to contact a professional prior to taking any action based upon this information.

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