Childhood gun and shooting accidents are a serious threat to the safety of our children. We see in the headlines every day that gun use by anyone can be dangerous. It’s imperative to prevent easy access to firearms and put them only in the hands of educated professionals.
When hunting, you want to be as safe as possible to help reduce your child’s risk of getting hurt. Hunting with a guide is the best approach. For young people handling firearms, it’s important to develop important habits. Professional guides can instruct them, and more importantly, set a good example as role models who adhere to safe hunting skills. Here is an example of some safety measures that a hunting guide practices:
- Making sure every member of the group wears hunter orange and being aware of their position at all times.
- Checking that firearms are clean, free of obstructions and in good working order.
- Using proper-sized ammunition.
- Keeping guns unloaded when transporting them to and from the hunting area and when climbing or jumping into position.
- Watching where all guns are pointed and steering clear of the trigger until it’s time to shoot.
- Unloading before dressing the catch.
There are many online resources that teach child gun safety in general, from the NRA to the American Society of Pediatrics. These can be beneficial for all children, whether or not hunting is involved. Keeping children safe is a priority for all of us. Using all available resources can help reduce the risk of accidents.
As one of the top providers of outdoor and adventure insurance nationwide, Outdoor Insurance Group OIG insures hundreds of hunting guides throughout the country. If you’re a guide looking to buy, renew or update and insurance plan, call today for a free consultation (888) 683-7808.