| Boating and hunting are most definitely two of the | | | | to override common sense. |
| most popular outdoor activities. In the following | | | | Taking a compass and map with you will aid if |
| article we will take a look at each of them and | | | | you get lost. Even a flashlight is a good idea in |
| discuss some of the safety risk involved. | | | | case you become lost in the dark. The flashlight |
| Boating | | | | will also help in avoiding snakes and other |
| The term boating usually refers to the | | | | potentially dangerous animals. |
| recreational use of a pleasure craft. Fishing and | | | | Boating Safety |
| waterskiing are two common boating activities | | | | For most people when they go out boating on the |
| along with many other sports. Millions of boaters | | | | water the last thing on their mind is emergency |
| can be found all around the world as it is an | | | | preparation. This is a mistake which over time has |
| incredibly popular activity. | | | | cost many people their lives. Being prepared for |
| Hunting | | | | an emergency is absolutely vital if you are going |
| Hunting can be defined as the practise of pursuing | | | | to go out boating. Common boating emergencies |
| some type of animal while attempting to capture | | | | include someone falling overboard, boat |
| or kill it. Hunting dates back many, many years | | | | breakdowns, boat leaks and capsizing. |
| and is a very celebrated pastime. | | | | Proper safety equipment is not only |
| Hunting Safety | | | | recommended but is mandatory in most places. |
| Unload all firearms when not in use. Although you | | | | Boating safety equipment includes life buoys, life |
| may know that your firearm is loaded, the people | | | | jackets and ladders. A horn and bailer are also |
| around you may not. Never hop over a fence or | | | | recommended and/or required in most areas. |
| climb into your tree stand with a gun that is | | | | Survival suits are also recommended especially |
| loaded. When travelling on an ATV or other | | | | when boating in cold water where the risk of |
| vehicle unload the gun as well. | | | | hypothermia is greater. |
| Be sure that not only do you know what is in | | | | Proper maintenance of your boat is essential to |
| front of your target before shooting but also be | | | | ensuring a safe trip. Without proper maintenance |
| aware of what is behind it. Many hunters leave | | | | your boat has a much greater risk of breaking |
| this part out as they assume that they will not | | | | down which will put the lives of everyone on |
| miss. That however is not the case. | | | | board including yourself at risk. |
| The most important safety tip that we can offer | | | | Following these tips will allow you a much better |
| you is to use common sense at ALL times. While | | | | chance of having a safe and enjoyable time |
| hunting, do not at any time allow your emotions | | | | whether you are hunting or boating. |