Don’t let a mistake change your life this hunting season

During the roar and duck hunting seasons it’s important to remember the safety basics.

You’ll be out in isolated areas so make sure you plan ahead. Take communications devices and a personal locator beacon so if something goes wrong you can get help quickly, and let people know where you’re going.

Check the weather forecast and have wet weather gear, and food and water supplies.

Take a first aid kit and make sure you know the basics of first aid – a day’s training could make a world of difference and save your life.

And most importantly when you’re out there, wear high vis. You don’t want to become a mistaken target.

That leads to one of the most important firearms safety rules – identify your target beyond all doubt.

The importance of these rules is sadly highlighted by the tragic experience of a long-time hunter Ross. He and his hunting partner faced a life-changing lesson on a hunting trip in 2008. Ross was shot by his hunting partner after they had agreed not to load their firearms or hunt, as they took separate paths through the bush to an allocated meeting point.

Both Ross and his friend’s lives were changed forever. Ross still suffers from his injuries. While his friend was convicted of careless use of firearm causing injury, the consequences were so much deeper and far reaching for them both.

Whether you’re in the bush or in the maimai, safety must always be your priority.

If you’d like to see Ross’ video story, or Police’s other hunting safety messages, you can find them at: https://www.police.govt. nz/advice-services/firearms-and-safety/ firearms-safety/hunter-safety