Hunting checklist

PERSONAL PREPARATION:

• Know the area you're going to hunt. If possible, scout the area before the hunt.

• Put a survival kit together. The kit should include:

— A small first aid kit

— Three ways to make a fire — matches, cigarette lighter, firestarters, etc.

— Quick energy snack foods

— Cord or rope

— Compass

— Flashlight

— Extra knife

— Small pad of paper and a pencil for leaving information at your last location, who you are and the direction you're traveling, should you become lost

FIREARM PREPARATION:

• Have the proper ammunition for your firearm.

• Be as familiar as possible with your firearm — know how to load and unload it and where the safety is and how to operate it.

FIREARM SAFETY:

• Controlling your muzzle is the most important aspect of firearm safety. Never let the muzzle of your firearm point at anyone or anything when not aiming at a target

• Never carry a loaded firearm in a vehicle.

• Before pulling the trigger, make sure of the target and what's beyond it.

VEHICLE PREPARATION:

• Make sure your vehicle is in good mechanical condition.

• Carry a shovel, ax, tire chains, jumper cables and a tow chain in the vehicle.

• If you experience mechanical problems with your vehicle or become snowed in, stay with your vehicle — don't leave it.

BEFORE LEAVING ON YOUR TRIP:

• Let someone know where you're going and when you expect to return.

WHILE IN THE FIELD:

• Never hunt alone.

• Wear proper safety clothing — 400 square inches of hunter orange on your back, chest and head.

FIELD DRESSING YOUR ANIMAL:

• Use a sharp knife. A sharp knife is safer for field dressing than a dull knife.

• Cut away from you. Never bring a knife blade toward you while cutting.

PHYSICAL WELLBEING: