Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Tip of the Week for September 20, 2015 – Hunters and Hikers

Hunters:

• Check weather reports before visiting the forest. Dress properly.

• Tell someone where you will be hunting and when you will return. Leave a written plan at home and in your vehicle.
• Be familiar with the area you want to hunt.
• Avoid wearing white or tan during hunting seasons. Wearing hunter orange, viewable from all directions, is recommended. Research reveals that orange and reds appear as darker subdued colors to deer and elk.
• If accompanied by a dog, the dog should also wear hunter orange or a very visible color on a vest, leash, coat or bandana.
• Check hunting equipment before and after each outing and maintain it properly. Familiarize yourself with its operation before using it in the field.
• Carry a spare set of dry clothing. Use layering techniques to prevent moisture while retaining body warmth. Always bring rain gear.
• Carry a first aid kit and know how to use its contents.
• Clearly identify your target before shooting. Prevent unfortunate accidents or fatalities.
• Be alert when hunting near developed areas and trails. Other recreationists are in the forest as well.

Hikers:

• Wear bright clothing. Make yourself more visible. Choose colors that stand out, like red, orange or green, and avoid white, blacks, browns, earth-toned greens and animal-colored clothing. Orange vests and hats are advisable.
• Don’t forget to protect Fido. Get an orange vest for your dog if he/she accompanies you.
• Be courteous. Once a hunter is aware of your presence, don’t make unnecessary noise to disturb wildlife. Avoid confrontations.
• Make yourself known. If you do hear shooting, raise your voice and let hunters know that you are in the vicinity.
• Know when hunting seasons are occurring. If you choose to hike during a hunting season, learn about where and when hunting is taking place.
• Know your own comfort level. If hunting makes you uneasy, choose a hiking location where hunting is not allowed, such as a national or a state park.

For more information and tips, visit our web site at www.lincolncountysheriff.net and on your Smartphone via the “MobilePatrol” app and Like us on Facebook at Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office – Oregon.