Here’s a quick quiz: If someone asked you, “How many Maine sportsmen and women enjoy hunting each year?” what would your answer be? Maybe 25,000? Perhaps as high as 50,000? Would you believe the correct answer is actually way higher? According to the most recent statistics, more than 207,000 hunters take to the Maine woods each year—an amazing 15 percent of the state population. And that means safe hunting is especially critical.
So how can Maine sportsmen and women be sure they are engaging in safe-hunting “best practices”? Here is what the experts say:
The T.A.B.K. Method
Arguably the most important safe-hunting tip for Maine sportsmen and women is to remember the acronym “T.A.B.K.”—and to adhere to it rigorously.
T.A.B.K. stands for:
- Treat every firearm as if it is loaded. Never assume a gun is unloaded. Visually and physically check the chamber, receiver, and magazine before handling.
- Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. A safe direction is one in which no one will be in the line of fire. This prevents accidents from ricochets or unexpected shots.
- Be sure of your target and what is beyond it. Confirm your target is what you intend to shoot, and that your line of fire is clear of other people or animals.
- Keep your finger off the trigger. Only place your finger on the trigger when you are ready to shoot.
Personal & Planning Safety
Once you have memorized what the acronym “T.A.B.K.” stands for—and committed yourself to following those crucial safe-hunting practices—you are well on your way to engaging in enjoyable, safe hunting. But there are additional steps you can take to ensure your hunting experience is even safer and more enjoyable.
They include:
- Inform someone of your plans. Let a friend or family member know where you are going and when you expect to return. This is crucial in case of an emergency.
- Wear blaze orange. Maine requires hunters to wear a specific amount of blaze orange to be visible to other hunters. This is a critical safety measure, especially for deer, muzzle-loader, and moose hunters.
- Dress appropriately. Wear layers of non-cotton clothing that will keep you warm and dry. Include a water-repellent outer layer, and bring extra socks and clothing.
- Carry essential gear. Pack a map, compass, GPS or cell phone, a first-aid kit, water, food, and means for making a fire (while adhering to fire-safety laws).
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