CHAPTER FIVE:
Be a Safe Hunter

How to safely load and unload, transport, and carry firearms; how to hunt safely . . .

Learning Objectives
You should be able to:

• State three practices for handling and storing firearms safely in the home.
  
  
• Demonstrate the four primary rules of firearm safety.
  
  
• Name the four main causes of hunting incidents.
  
  
• Demonstrate six field carries for a rifle or shotgun.
  
  
• Demonstrate proper field carries while walking two or three abreast and while walking two or three in single file.
  
  
• Demonstrate the safe method for crossing an obstacle if hunting alone and if hunting with a partner.
  
  
• Explain how to check safely to see that the barrel of a firearm is free of obstructions.
  
  
• List the steps to load and unload a firearm safely.
  
  
• Explain how to transport firearms safely in vehicles and in boats.
  
  
• Demonstrate proper spacing between hunters and the safe zone-of-fire when hunting in a group.
  
  
• Explain why self-control, target identification, and accuracy are critical for hunting safety.
  
  
• State five functions needed for hunting that are impaired if the hunter consumes alcohol or drugs.
  
  
• List advantages and disadvantages of hunting from an elevated stand.
  
  
• Name the accessory you should wear at all times when climbing a tree and when on a tree stand.
  
  
• Demonstrate how to haul a firearm into an elevated stand safely.
  
  
• Demonstrate a safe position and the zone-of-fire when hunting with a partner in a boat.
  
  
• Name the accessory you should wear at all times when hunting from a boat.
  
  
• Demonstrate what to do to help retain body heat if you are stranded in chilly water.
  
  
• List seven rules for safe and ethical operation when hunting with an all-terrain vehicle.