It’s that time of year again when men and women head to the woods to go hunting. Too often we hear of hunters that go missing. I know from years of hunting myself, sometimes we get excited when we are tracking an animal and really don’t pay attention as to where we are. Maybe we take a wrong turn or that wrong fork in the road.

I recommend you always have a handheld GPS with you. It might save your hide and some embarrassment. (Personal experience)

Here are 10 other tips:
1. Always carry a waterproof fire-starting kit in a pocket. If you get wet, being able to start a fire is crucial to staving off hypothermia.
2. Have your truck, motor home, and ATV serviced. Make sure everything is in good running order and that batteries are at full charge.
3. Never go hunting without telling somebody where you're going and when you expect to return.
4. Stock your rig or ATV with safety gear: survival rations, rope, blanket, hand ax, whistle, etc.
5. Attach a compass to your coat with a cord. This way, it'll always be there when you need it.
6. Treat every gun as if it's loaded, even when you're sure it's not.
7. Before each hunt, open your gun's action and check the muzzle for obstructions.
8. Carry a cell phone in a waterproof plastic bag when hunting. Cell phone service is available in most places around the country. If an emergency arises, you can call for help.
Pay attention, and remember: NO animal is worth endangering your life or the life of those who have to come find you!

Good luck and good hunting!

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