Top Tips for Emergency Preparedness for Hunters: Stay Safe

Hunting is an exciting and rewarding outdoor activity, but it’s important to remember that it comes with certain risks. Whether you're hunting in the woods, fields, or on the water, being prepared for an emergency is crucial for ensuring your safety and well-being. Accidents, sudden weather changes, and unforeseen circumstances can happen to anyone, and being ready for these situations can make all the difference.

In this blog, we’ll explore some of the top tips for emergency preparedness that every hunter should know. By following these guidelines and planning ahead, you can minimize risks and stay safe on your next hunting adventure.

Emergency Preparedness

1. Carry a Well-Stocked First Aid Kit

A first aid kit is one of the most essential items in your emergency preparedness plan, as it is crucial for emergency first aid in the field. Minor cuts, scrapes, insect bites, and even more serious injuries can happen in the field, and having the right tools on hand to treat these injuries can make all the difference. Ethical hunting practices are also significant in ensuring safety and respect for wildlife and the environment.

• What to Include: Your first aid kit should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze, tweezers, a thermometer, and any necessary medications. It’s also a good idea to have a splint for fractures, pain relievers, and a whistle to signal for help if needed.

• Why It’s Important: Immediate access to basic first aid supplies can prevent further injury or infection until professional medical help is available. In remote areas, it could take hours for help to arrive, so being prepared is key.

Tip:

Regularly check and update your first aid kit to ensure that everything is in good condition and that supplies haven’t expired.

Being prepared for minor accidents during hunting activities is crucial, so make sure your kit is well-stocked and you have basic first aid knowledge.

2. Know the Terrain and Weather Conditions

Understanding the environment in which you’re hunting is essential for avoiding accidents and making informed decisions in case of emergency situations. Before heading out, research the area you plan to hunt, consult the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources for safety guidelines and regulations related to hunting, and get up-to-date weather forecasts.

• What to Do: Familiarize yourself with potential hazards such as rough terrain, water hazards, and wildlife. Be aware of any weather-related risks such as storms, extreme heat, or cold temperatures, which can lead to hypothermia or dehydration if you’re unprepared.

• Why It’s Important: Being prepared for the environment reduces your chances of becoming disoriented or lost, and it helps you make quick decisions in an emergency. Understanding weather patterns will also help you dress appropriately and pack the necessary gear.

Tip:

• Always have a map and compass or GPS device with you, and let someone know your planned route and expected return time before heading out.

3. Pack Emergency Communication Devices

In remote hunting locations, especially in areas with limited cell phone service, communication is key in case of an emergency. Carrying a reliable communication device can be the difference between a quick rescue and hours of waiting for help.

• What to Use: Consider carrying a satellite phone, two-way radio, or personal locator beacon (PLB). These devices will allow you to contact help even when you’re out of range of traditional cell service.

• Why It’s Important: In case of an injury, a lost hunter, or an unforeseen emergency, being able to communicate with rescue teams or others will speed up the process of getting help.

Tip:

• Test your communication devices before going hunting. Make sure your satellite phone or radio has enough battery life and that you know how to use it properly in case of an emergency.

4. Create a Safety Plan with Your Hunting Group

Before heading out for hunting activities, it’s important to establish a safety plan with your hunting group. This should include the routes you plan to take, meeting points in case of separation, and steps to follow in the event of an emergency. A well-prepared safety plan contributes to a successful hunt by ensuring everyone is prepared and knows what to do in case of an emergency.

• What to Include: Make sure everyone in your group knows what to do if someone gets lost, injured, or in danger. Agree on check-in times and establish a communication plan. If you’re hunting in a large area, assign a specific person to each area to ensure that everyone is accounted for.

• Why It’s Important: Having a safety plan in place ensures that everyone knows what to do if things go wrong. It reduces confusion and ensures that help is readily available if needed.

Tip:

• Leave a copy of your plan with a trusted friend or family member who can contact authorities if you don’t check in at the designated time.

5. Carry Appropriate Weather and Rain Gear

Being prepared for weather changes is critical in staying safe during a hunt, and packing appropriate rain gear is essential. Weather conditions can change rapidly, especially in the backcountry, so it’s essential to bring gear that can protect you from rain, wind, snow, or extreme cold.

• What to Bring: Pack layers of clothing that can be added or removed depending on the temperature. Waterproof jackets and pants, insulated clothing, gloves, and hats are all important to have on hand. A good pair of boots that can withstand wet or muddy conditions is also a must.

• Why It’s Important: Extreme temperatures can lead to heatstroke, hypothermia, or frostbite if you’re not properly protected. Proper gear can help you regulate your body temperature and stay comfortable during the hunt.

Tip:

• Always carry extra clothing, especially for longer hunts. Spare socks, a jacket, or a blanket can provide warmth in an emergency situation.

6. Bring Enough Food and Water

Dehydration and hunger can quickly lead to fatigue, poor decision-making, and even more serious health risks in an emergency. Make sure to pack enough food and water to last the entire day or longer if you’re going on a multi-day hunt.

• What to Pack: Carry a sufficient supply of water, especially if you’re hunting in remote areas. High-energy snacks like granola bars, trail mix, or jerky are excellent choices for keeping you fueled throughout the day.

• Why It’s Important: Having enough food and water, including high energy food, will keep your energy levels high and ensure that you’re physically capable of handling any unexpected situation.

Tip:

• Always pack extra water. Even if you plan to hunt near a water source, it’s better to have more than you need in case of an emergency.

7. Know Basic Survival Skills

While it’s essential to carry the right gear, it’s equally important to know how to use it effectively in an emergency. Learning basic survival skills such as building an emergency shelter, starting a fire, signaling for help, and performing basic first aid can greatly increase your chances of staying safe in a crisis.

• What to Learn: Brush up on basic survival techniques, including how to start a fire without matches, build a shelter, or perform CPR. Knowing these skills can be vital in situations where you’re stranded or waiting for help to arrive.

• Why It’s Important: Survival skills help you stay calm and make critical decisions when faced with an emergency. These skills are especially useful when you’re far from help or in a situation where traditional communication methods fail.

Tip:

• Take a survival course before your hunting season starts, so you’re prepared for the unexpected. Practice your skills regularly so they’re second nature when you need them.

Conclusion

Emergencies can happen at any time, but with the right preparation, you can minimize risk and ensure your safety while hunting. By packing essential gear, planning ahead, and staying informed, you can handle unexpected situations with confidence and ensure that your hunting experiences remain enjoyable and safe. Remember, a little bit of preparation goes a long way in keeping you and your hunting party out of harm's way.

Stay safe out there, and always be prepared!

FAQs

What should I include in my emergency survival kit and first aid kit for hunting?

Your survival kit should include a first aid kit, a flashlight, a multi-tool, waterproof matches, a whistle, extra clothing, a map, an emergency blanket, and emergency food and water.

How can I prepare for getting lost while hunting?

To prepare for getting lost during a hunting trip, make sure you have a map and compass or GPS device, establish a plan with your group, and always let someone know where you’ll be and when to expect your return. If you do get lost, stay put and use your whistle to signal for help.

How do I prevent hypothermia during cold weather hunts?

Maintaining good physical fitness is essential for coping with the physical demands of hunting and preventing hypothermia during cold weather hunts. Wear multiple layers of clothing that can be added or removed as needed. Ensure that your outer layer is waterproof and windproof, and pack extra warm clothing in case of emergencies.

Should I bring a satellite phone when hunting in remote areas?

Yes, a satellite phone or other communication device is highly recommended when hunting trips take place in remote areas where cell service is limited. It can be crucial for calling for help if needed.

What should I do if I encounter wildlife during a hunt?

Stay calm and avoid sudden movements. If you encounter a dangerous animal, slowly back away while keeping an eye on it. Always respect wildlife and give them space.