A Hunter’s Checklist for a Safe and Successful Outing

Aaron Spuler is a firearms enthusiast and recreational shooter. Follow more or his work at The Weapon Blog

When it comes to hunting trips, you’ve likely got guns and ammo part covered. However, there’s more to a hunting trip than just racking a shotgun. To make your trip safe and successful, there are a few important things to consider doing and bringing before heading out.

1. Pack an Emergency Medical Kit

God forbid you or someone gets hurt while you’re hunting. Getting injured while hunting can be especially dangerous depending on how remote the hunting grounds are; first responders could be hours away. Make sure you are equipped to handle the situation with a fully-loaded medical kit that you can use until a medical professional can be reached.

2. Don’t Get Lost

Let’s say you take your shot, but it doesn’t kill your target instantly; instead, it takes off running. You follow the blood trail for hours until you’ve found your prize. After you bask in the glory and take your pictures, you get that feeling in your gut: You’ve just realized you have no idea where you are or how to get back to camp. Take a compass, maps, a GPS or even all three to avoid any possibility of getting lost.

3. Check Your Tires

If you like driving off-road, then make sure your truck has good rubber. But don’t just look at the tires; check the air pressure and make sure you have enough tread for good traction. Getting stuck in the mud and having to be dragged out might just take all the glory out of your trophy.

4. Tell Someone Beforehand

In addition to avoiding getting lost, an important safety precaution is to make sure someone at home knows where you are and when they should expect you to return. Also leave a good map of the area you plan to be located so if you’re late in returning, someone can send help to look for you. If you do get lost, stay put. Finding you will be easier for the authorities.

5. Bring a Water Purifier

If you find yourself in a difficult situation that requires you to be in the wilderness for an extended period, make sure you have access to water. A quality, light purifier will help in your hour of need and will make bringing heavy water supplies unnecessary.

6. A Waterproof Fire Starter Kit

Don’t get caught not being able to start a fire. Even if you don’t plan on spending the night in the wild, you should always be prepared. A waterproof fire starting kit will at least give you the chance to cook and stay warm. And make sure this kit is with you every time you go hunting.

Wounded game is unpredictable. The wilderness can be tricky to navigate. All in all, there are no guarantees when it comes to hunting. Luckily, you can take a few simple precautions and easily-packable items to keep you safe and prepare you for any situation you may face.