Crossing Obstacles

• Always unload guns before crossing fences or other obstacles or before negotiating rough terrain.
• Cross wire fences close to a fence post to prevent damage to the fence.
• After unloading it, place the gun on the other side of the fence or obstacle to be crossed, with the muzzle pointed away from you and your crossing point. Then cross the fence and retrieve your gun.
• Pull a gun toward you by the butt—never by the muzzle.
• If two people are crossing, one person gives the other person both guns, crosses first, and then receives the unloaded guns from the other hunter.

In addition to gun handling, several other factors affect your safety during the hunt:

• Weather, especially the sun's glare
• Pests, such as fire ants, snakes, and bees
• Your emotional state
• Your stamina, especially when hunts are physically demanding