Tuesday, April 22, 2008

The members of the Pennsylvania Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation are concerned about hunter safety as Keystone State spring gobbler hunters take to the woods this month.

Turkey Hunting Related Shooting Incident Rates have improved greatly in Pennsylvania and throughout the nation in the last two decades. PANWTF members have helped to make this trend possible by hosting seminars, issuing press releases, preparing articles reminding hunters about safe hunting techniques and even teaching Hunter Education classes.

In the past three spring gobbler seasons, there have been less than ten Turkey Hunting Related Shooting Incidents annually even though more than 240,000 spring hunters took to the woods each year. That trend needs to continue. One incident is too many.

"Pennsylvania is one of the most popular spring turkey hunting destinations," said Skip Motts, of the Pennsylvania Chapter Safety and Education Committee. "Pennsylvania has a large number of turkey hunters and our chapter wants every one to have a safe, successful and enjoyable spring season. Spring gobbler hunting is an exciting sport so turkey hunters really need to be thinking safety to hunt safely."

Turkey hunting is an extremely safe pastime but by following a few common sense safety tips, hunters can relax and enjoy their hunts.

While considering their set-ups carefully, sitting down with a large tree or other object behind them to break up their silhouette and remaining still hunters actually enhance their potential for success.

Spring hunters should dress for success by paying attention to their camouflage, using gloves and a face mask to cover all exposed skin. Never wear any clothing, even as a second layer, that is red, white, blue or black. These are colors that might be mistaken for turkey colors by a careless person.

Never try to stalk or sneak up on a gobbler. Always pick a good location and sit down to call the bird to you. Depend on your camo for concealment; don't try to hide in brush. If you see another hunter approaching your position, shout in a distinctly human voice to alert the hunter to your presence. Never wave or use turkey calls to attract the attention of another hunter.

Pennsylvania turkey hunters have good reason to be optimistic according to Pennsylvania State Chapter President Jon Pries.

"Many areas of the Commonwealth had a good hatch last spring and the spring before. Our members are reporting good sized flocks from various spots around the state. It is going to be a good spring season with lots of memories and unique experiences. Though anticipation is a large part of the thrill of turkey hunting, each of us has a real responsibility to hunt safely. To remind all Pennsylvania turkey hunters to be safe this spring we have supplied posters urging hunters to positively identify their targets to the Game Commission and DCNR. Those signs are found at parking lots on many state lands," Pries said.

If you choose to use decoys this spring, never carry them uncovered. Check the PANWTF website for tips on safely setting up decoys. When that crucial moment comes, always be absolutely certain to take extra time to identify your target and scan the area beyond your gobbler to assure a safe shot. Remember that you should look carefully at the head and neck of the gobbler to be certain it is red, white and blue. Then check for the beard and dark black breast and back feathers. Always let the gobbler approach within 40 yards of you and make sure you can see the whole bird clearly before shooting.

In addition, remember the common sense rules of hunter safety. Treat every gun as if it is loaded, always point the firearm in a safe direction, keep your finger away from the trigger and the safety on until you are ready to shoot. Do not rely on the safety to be safe- be a safe shooter. Use the correct gauge ammunition and make certain the shotgun barrel is not obstructed before you load your firearm.

Every day this spring as you get ready to hunt think safety and hunt safely. It's your responsibility as a hunter.

For more information about the Pennsylvania Chapter of the National Wild Turkey, please visit www.panwtf.org.

FACTS BOX

Safe hunting tips - THINK SAFETY - HUNT SAFELY

The Pennsylvania Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation offers tips for safe hunting for the spring turkey season.

• Do not hide in brush (stay in the open using your camouflage as your cover)
• When possible sit with your back against a tree or large rock.
• Do not wear red, white, blue, or solid black
• Shout "stop" to alert approaching hunters
• Place decoys at a safe angle
• Do not shoot at colors, sounds, or motions
• Always know the location of other hunters in your party
• During the spring season, if you know another hunter is working a particular area and/or bird leave and find a new location. This is also proper hunting ethics.
• Be 100 percent certain of your target before you shoot
• Shoot only when you see the entire turkey (head, beard and body)