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:

• Know your physical limitations and don't exceed them.

• Be prepared for weather changes by dressing in layers. Dressing in layers allows you to regulate your body temperature by adding or removing clothes as needed.

• Drink plenty of water, regardless of the temperature. It's possible to become dehydrated even in cold weather.

• Hypothermia, or the loss of body temperature, can occur in temperatures as warm as 50 degrees.

• Be aware of hypothermia signs. The first is stumbling or disorientation. When you notice these signs, sit down immediately and build a fire. Get yourself warm and dry.

• Be aware of frostbite. White spots on the skin are the first sign. Check the face, feet and hands regularly. It's much easier to notice the first signs of frostbite on the face if you're hunting with a companion who can alert you.