Safety for pheasant hunts

Hunting always has the potential to give sportsmen an adrenaline rush that keeps the quest for challenging game ongoing. No matter how many times you've gone out, though, always remember some basic safety precautions. These apply to any hunter. Below are some fundamentals to keep in mind:

• Never point your muzzle in the direction of yourself or others, even if the gun is unloaded.
• Be certain of your target, and aware of what's beyond it. Never fire at a sound, movement, or patch of color. Make sure your target has a stop such as a hill behind it, and be informed about your guns ability.
• Whenever your firearm is not in use, be sure to keep it unloaded. Don't forget to unload the chamber and/or magazine as well. Also, never assume a gun to be unloaded. If you are on the hunt with a loaded gun, and are in a situation that may result in accidental discharge, remember to unload your gun. These situations include, but are not limited to, climbing a tree, fence, or wading through water. Do not trust the safety of your gun-it is a mechanism that's always prone to malfunction. Treat the gun as if it could discharge at all times.
• Be sure to use the correct ammunition. Serious injury and death await you if you knowingly or accidentally equip your firearm with improper ammunition. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions when reloading.

These are basic methods to keep in mind. If you have any questions about how to be safe during your geese or pheasant hunts, contact your state's department of natural resources. They should be able to supply extensive safety precautions, and perhaps even a pheasant hunting guide.

Do not hesitate to ask our guides any questions regarding the safety of yourself and others while you're on pheasant hunts. Their job and passion is to provide you with the best possible hunting experience. Of course they will happily provide you with information, and answer any questions about the birds, the best spots and times to hunt, etc, but your and others safety takes top priority. Remember, even if in doubt about the necessary safety procedures, please ask your pheasant hunting guide.