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Frank A. Douglass Insurance Agency

Safety Urged as Firearm Deer Season Opens

Excitement is building as the opening of the Michigan firearm deer hunting season approaches tomorrow.

Officials are encouraging safety in the woods. Department of Natural Resources Conservation Officer Mark Pomeroy suggests loading up on the hunter’s orange…

The more orange you can wear to be visible, it’s not only going to help you, it’s going to help other hunters.

The advice goes for non-hunters venturing into the woods as well. It’s a case where subtlety can kill you…

I you wear a hat, it meets the requirements of the law, but, just remember, if you have a small beanie hat on, and you step behind a tree or branch, and the rest of your outfit is camouflaged, somebody might not see you.

Deer see in shades of gray, so they’re not scared off by the bright orange.

Pomeroy also recommends keeping someone abreast of where you are in the woods…

It’s very simple. You can send a text to somebody in your camp. If you changed stand locations, if you’re going somewhere else, let somebody know where you’re going to hunt, and be as specific as you can, for the simple idea that of you don’t come back, where do we start looking for you?

On a related safety note, health officials are encouraging hunters not to overdo it in the woods.

Aspirus Cardiologist Dr. Marcus Sublette says just the excitement of the hunt can elevate one’s heart rate and blood pressure.

He suggests watching for common warning signs of heart distress. Chest tightness, shortness of breath, and lightheadedness should never be ignored no matter how subtle.

Pack your medications and take them accordingly.

If your hunt is successful, Sublette also recommends getting help hauling your deer. Don’t be a hero – call a buddy, or use an ATV to bring your kill into camp.

If you’re not active on a regular basis, limit your other physical activities, including your hikes in the woods, and wood splitting.

Aspirus has prepared an online heart health assessment. Link to it here.

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