Oh yes, it’s that time of year again; time to push vanity aside and break out your Blaze Orange. It’s deer hunting season! We are currently in the midst of archery season (aka bow and arrow) which runs from October 4 – 26 and again December 5 – 13. Next up is Youth Deer Weekend November 7-8, then Rifle Season November 14-29, and finally Muzzleloader Season December 5 -13. If you’re new to the area, what this all boils down to is that from now until Christmas someone is in the woods hunting deer. Don’t let them hunt you.
Tips to stay safe when you’re hiking during hunting season:
- Wear bright clothing. Make yourself (and your pets) more visible. Choose colors that stand out, like red and orange, and avoid blacks, browns, earth-toned greens and animal-colored clothing.
- Make noise. Whistle, sing or carry on a conversation as you walk to alert hunters to your presence. Sound carries well across mountain basins, and hunters should be listening for any sounds of animal movement.
- 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. Continue to hike, but learn about where and when hunting is taking place. Vermont seasons and dates look here, for Vermont maps of hunting areas look here.
- Know your own comfort level. If hunting makes you uneasy, choose a hike in a location where hunting is not allowed, such as a national park or a state park.
Not convinced Blaze Orange works… watch this:
Should I wear orange?
Effectiveness of Blaze Orange: This short hunter safety video provides tips about how wearing the right amount and kind of blaze orange can keep you safe in the field.