Ohio Deer Season Safety: Essential Tips for Hunters

The Orange Army: Ohio’s Hunting Community

BELMONT COUNTY, Ohio — The Ohio Division of Wildlife refers to hunters as the “orange army.” As thousands of dedicated hunters venture into the woods this deer season, prioritizing safety is crucial.

Key Statistics: Hunters in Ohio

This deer season, it’s estimated that over 200,000 hunters will be in Ohio’s forests. While this number reflects a downward trend, wildlife officers continuously respond to incidents caused by shooting accidents. These accidents often result from a lack of proper gun safety practices.

Essential Gun Safety Tips

Breyer Ehrnfield, an Ohio wildlife officer, emphasizes the importance of gun safety:

• Treat every gun as if it is loaded.
• Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction.
• Never place your finger in the trigger guard unless you intend to fire at an animal.

Adhering to these guidelines can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.

Mandatory Safety Gear for Hunters

In Ohio, hunters are required to wear hunter orange visible from all angles, including their head. This bright color is essential for ensuring visibility and avoiding accidental shootings.

Legal Hunting Hours

Hunters should be aware of the legal hunting hours, which are from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. Proper visibility helps prevent case of being mistaken for wildlife.

Target Identification is Key

“Make sure you are positively identifying your target,” Breyer adds. “Whether it’s whitetail deer or any other game, you must be 100% certain it is a deer before taking a shot.”

Tips for Outdoor Enthusiasts

For those who prefer to enjoy nature without hunting, the Ohio Division of Wildlife recommends staying on designated public paths.

• Wear high-visibility clothing to enhance safety. Breyer suggests wearing a hunter orange vest to ensure visibility to those in the field.

Know the Rules and Regulations

Before heading outdoors during gun season, hunters and outdoor enthusiasts should familiarize themselves with all relevant rules and regulations.

• In case of an emergency: Call 911 immediately, and it’s advised to carry medical kits at all times.

Upcoming Gun Seasons

Both West Virginia and Ohio gun seasons run until December 7. West Virginia’s gun season is currently active, while Ohio’s begins on December 1.

By following these guidelines, hunters can ensure a safe and enjoyable deer season in the beautiful woods of Ohio.