Chapter 5: Outdoor Safety
Importance of Planning and Preparation (continued)

Conditions Affecting Physical Ability

Hunting often demands more physical activity than you're use to. Conditions that may hamper your physical ability to perform safely and responsibly while hunting include:

Known Allergies

• Take medication or have medication with you at all times.
• Be wary of side effects.

Physical Fitness

• Hunting and trapping are physically demanding activities; you need a fitness program (strength, endurance, cardiovascular).
• Being physically fit also reduces the possibility of becoming ill.

Overweight

• Affects your heart and endurance.
• May restrict your ability to move from place to place.
• Requires a sensible rate of activity.

Mind Set

• A clear head is essential to make critical decisions.
• May influence reaction time in critical situations.

Physical Disability

• Doesn't prevent you from participating in hunting or trapping activities.
• May require special equipment.
• May need to locate accessible areas to hunt or trap.
• Requires that you hunt or trap with a partner.

Fatigue or Illness

• Reduces energy.
• Lessens your ability to think clearly.
• Reduces motor response.

If you're planning a hunt that involves a lot of physical activity, start getting in shape at least two months ahead of time.