DEEP offers safety tips as deer hunting season opens

NEW HAVEN — Deer hunting season will open in Connecticut Wednesday, prompting officials with the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection to offer some safety tips for hunters and others wishing to enjoy the outdoors.

“This is a popular time for residents to enjoy the many outdoor opportunities our state has to offer, such as hiking and biking, even more so now due to the current COVID-19 pandemic,” said DEEP Wildlife Division Director Jenny Dickson in a release. “Therefore, it is especially important for all outdoor users to respect the rights of others and be aware of all activities that may be occurring outdoors. Connecticut hunters have an excellent safety record, and safety practices on the part of all outdoor users can help in our efforts to keep hunting safe for everyone.”

Officials advised that residents venturing outdoors:

⏩ Look up and watch out for hazardous trees while in forested areas, particularly in eastern Connecticut. Several years of storms, drought, and insect infestations have severely damaged a significant number of trees. A “hazard tree” has a structural defect that makes it likely to fail in whole or in part. Such a tree can fall without warning.

⏩ When you plan to spend time outdoors, let someone know where you are going and when you will return.

⏩ Familiarize yourself with the area where you plan to go and know the activities that occur there.

⏩ Wear brightly-colored clothing. A fluorescent orange vest and/or hat is recommended, and vests are encouraged for dogs.

⏩ If you see another person while in the woods, whether a hiker, hunter, biker or horseback rider, call out to make them aware of your presence.

⏩ Respect property rights. Remember, all users are required to obtain permission from the owner before entering private property. Deer and turkey hunters hunting on private land must obtain and carry written permission from the landowner. Verbal permission for the hunting of other game species is sufficient.

According to the release, “(h)unting is allowed on private lands and in most state forests and wildlife management areas, and some state parks.”

Further about deer hunting season and other hunting opportunities at the state is available at https://portal.ct.gov/DEEPHunting.