Hunting is a time-honored tradition in most rural areas on Thanksgiving Day. So, what better time than this week to remind everyone that hunters' safety should be a top priority while in the woods. In addition to the Ten Commandments of Firearm Safety (Which should be etched in every hunters' memory FOREVER), Always keep the gun pointed in a safe direction, preferably towards the ground. Firearm should remain unloaded when not in use. Don't rely on the gun's safety. Be sure of your target and what is on the other side of it. Use the proper ammunition for your gun type. If your gun misfires, handle it with care. Always wear eye and ear protection when shooting. Be sure the barrel is clean and clear of obstructions before firing. Do not alter or modify your gun. Have it serviced regularly. Learn the mechanical and handling characteristics of your firearm before using. There are also other safety measures that should be taken as well. These will help keep you and your fellow hunters safe (though I can't say the same for the turkey): Be Seen (not by the hunted, of course) - Wearing a bright orange reflective vest will increase your chances of being seen by other hunters who may be hunting in the same area. Those with land leases may not have this issue as much as those hunting in public areas but they should still heed the safety suggestions. You never know who might be hunting illegally... trust me, it happens! A reflective bib-style vest that slips over the head and attaches on the sides (under the arms) with reflective elastic is an easy option. Stay Hydrated (not with alcohol) - When sitting in the woods all day, it is important to drink plenty of liquid to stay hydrated. This is significantly more important if your hunt requires a lot of walking. It would be terribly embarrassing if you fainted in front of your buddies and they had to use their ATV rack to haul you instead of that mountable 10 point buck with a 20 inch spread. A canteen that is made of tough, scuff-resistant plastic made for water or other preferable beverage (again, alcohol is not recommended though the canteen will hold it) will come in handy. Strap In - A tree stand is a whole different monster and comes with its own safety precautions but simply put, you better strap yourself in! A fall from a tree can cause concussions, broken bones, or even worse... death. So, needless to say, being strapped in is extremely important. Camo bungee ties are invaluable for securing precious cargo (such as yourself) to a tree. Have Light - As we all know from our drives home in the evenings, the time change means it gets dark sooner. When driving home we simply turn on our headlights but what are you supposed to do in the woods while walking to and from your tree stand or while tracking that bear you just shot (I'm being optimistic here)? Having a good flashlight on hand can be the difference between night and day... literally. Be Prepared (for most things) - Even when all the proper safety precautions are taken, accidents do happen and as my mother always said... "It is better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it." In other words, always be prepared! We don't want injuries to happen but know that they do. A pocket first aid kit has everything you will need for personal first aid in the woods. The best kinds are stored in a tough, waterproof pouch and fit in cargo pockets or backpacks. Please note: if the bear is running at you instead of away from you... RUN! First aid kits are great but they aren't miracle workers! Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9237539