>> FALL ADVISORY
Several kinds of accidents contribute significantly to emergency room visits by hunters and other outdoors enthusiasts every year. These injuries during hunting season usually fall into one of four categories: all-terrain vehicle (ATV) accidents, accidents with weapons, falls from tree stands, and encounters with snakes.
“Hunting can be fun, but it’s a sport that can also be dangerous if hunters don’t take safety precautions to prevent life-threatening injuries,” Dr. John Wood, medical director of the Emergency Center at Atrium Health Navicent Medical Center, said. “Following basic gun safety rules can ensure both a safe and enjoyable hunt. Individuals should also wear helmets and other safety equipment while operating ATVs.”
Each of these threats to safety can be managed and minimalized, however, just by taking some simple, appropriate precautions.
ATVs are quick, heavy, and often travel on uneven and/or unpredictable paths. Hunters can minimize the risk of operating these vehicles, though, by following a few simple tips:
• Always wear proper safety gear, including a helmet, while operating any ATV;
• Choose an ATV that is appropriate for the rider’s size, age and skill level.
• Pay attention to your surroundings, ride/drive carefully around all pedestrians;
• Avoid paved roads. ATVs are not intended for streets and collisions with cars are possible, and
• Never operate an ATV after consuming alcohol.
Weapon accidents, whether hunting with a bow or a firearm, often turn out devastating, therefore it is imperative for hunters to always keep in mind some basic safety tips:
• Always treat every firearm as if it is loaded;
• Do not place your finger on the trigger unless you are preparing to take a shot;
• Doublecheck to ensure the bullet’s caliber is appropriate to the firearm;
• Archers should identify a safe background before releasing an arrow. Never shoot into the skyline;
• Archers also should fully secure arrows before moving, even if only repositioning for a better shot; and
• Regardless of using a firearm or bow, always wear orange while in the woods, to help other hunters identify you as a person.
Falls from tree stands are another leading cause of injury among hunters, so if using a tree stand, keep the following in mind:
• Inspect the ladder steps and tree attachments each time prior to climbing the stand;
• If the stand is attached to a tree, inspect the tree prior to ascending the stand. The tree should be alive and healthy, without any visible rot or damage;
• Use a safety harness. Hook into the harness prior to leaving the ground and leave it attached until returning safely to the ground;
• Use a haul line to pull your unloaded weapon into the stand. Do not carry a firearm or bow into the stand or attach it to your body; and
• Tell a friend or loved one where you will be and when to expect you home. If an accident occurs, someone should know where to find you. Consider carrying a two-way radio or loud whistle to call for help, if needed.
More than 40 snake species can be found in Georgia, but of those, only six types are venomous. Most hunters will run across snakes from time to time, but by following a few simple tips they can avoid potentially life-threatening encounters:
• Wear bite-proof boots and chaps, especially in known snake habitats;
• Remain alert and aware of your surroundings at all times;
• Do not place your hands or feet into any area you cannot clearly see;
• If encountering a snake, back away slowly. Do not approach or provoke it;
• If you or someone in your group is bitten, seek emergency medical treatment immediately; and
• Adults should always supervise younger hunters.
In all cases, though, should an accident or injury occur, hunters must seek immediate, appropriate medical treatment. For emergency situations, call 911 or seek care at the nearest medical emergency center, such as Putnam General Hospital (101 Greensboro Rd., Eatonton), an Atrium Health Navicent Partner, or Atrium Health Navicent Urgent Care Northwest (5925 Zebulon Rd., Macon).
- Contributed