4 ways to stay safe this Goose Break

As Goose Break excitement takes hold of Eeyou Istchee, it is important to keep safety top of mind. First-timers and young children should be given extensive safety instructions before heading out. But for the rest of us, here are four helpful reminders to help ensure a good and safe Goose Break.

First, it is better to go hunting whenever possible with at least one partner. Aside from being able help each other with the hauling of the hunt, it also means you have someone to watch your back as you focus. Or if an emergency arises, you have a way to send for help, as you cannot rely on technology while in the bush. If you go alone and even if you are with some friends, it is important to let people back home know where you are going and when you plan to be back.

The second reminder is to have all of your vehicles and equipment serviced before heading out. And while you are out, it is important to respect the limits and not to overload equipment. It is better to be overly cautious than stranded in the bush because of something as simple as an overdue oil change or equipment failure. Boats especially have to be properly maintained before the season, as you do not want to be stuck on a river without a paddle.

Of course, gun safety and maintenance is vital during the hunt. According to a federal Justice Department study conducted in Quebec, 37% of accidental deaths from firearms happen while hunting. More than half the time, it is gun owners accidentally shooting themselves. Often, guns are borrowed from other owners. For this reason, gun safety is important and should be rehashed every hunting season. People tend to forget that guns should be treated as if they are loaded at all times.

The last helpful reminder is to remember that you might not be the only group of hunters in the area. Be cautious when you are aiming at a target, and be sure to factor in what may be behind it or in front of it, lest you make a bad judgment call. Be identifiable and wear orange so others can tell that you are a person and vice versa.

It’s important to stay safe, prepared and aware so that we can all have a good Goose Break. The Nation wishes you all luck when you’re out there and if you feel like you got the first goose shoot, contact us and we will feature you in the coming issues.