The Hunting and Firearms Safety Primer

Rating:
Summary: A Concise Tutorial
Review: The Foreword explains why knowledge and a good mental attitude are needed for safe and responsible gun handling. The 18 chapters consist of examples and explanations on the subject of firearms safety while hunting. There are slightly over 1.0 fatal hunting accidents for every 100,000 licenses issues. Swimming and boating are typically twice as dangerous (p.10). Hunter education programs have helped to reduce accidents. Chapter 18 lists their addresses for every state and Canadian province. Virtually all accidents fit into 21 categories, some types occur more frequently (p.9). About half involve firing intentionally but not hitting the target. About one-third involve self-inflicted wounds. Never grasp a firearm so the muzzle points at you! Accidents are mostly caused by carelessness, ignorance, or a lack of skill. Most accident victims are friends or family members.

Chapter 4 lists the safety rules for firearms and ammunition. It shows the distances that a shotgun or rifle can hit beyond a target. Accidents from careless handling typically occur among the young and those over 55; a lack of skill, or fatigue. Many accidents occur in and around vehicles. Chapter 7 suggests safe carrying examples, and when each should not be used. It warns against firing outside the safe zone for different activities. Hunting is no more complicated than driving a car (p.49).

Chapter 9 tells of the illusion of "early blur", where an observer may see what he expects to see when details are fuzzy. This is a physiological phenomenon that must be avoided. The use of fluorescent orange clothing has reduced the number of hunting accidents. The rules for each state and province are listed. Chapter 10 cautions against line-of-fire accidents, where a shot hits something other than the target. These mostly violate the well-known "don't assume" rule.

Chapter 11 lists the special considerations for hunting turkey and waterfowl. Turkey hunters who call birds to where they sit are often victims of shootings. Boating when hunting is dangerous because of unstable boats and hypothermia (cold water). Chapter 12 warns about the use of alcohol which depresses brain functions like balance and coordination. Chapter 13 has the rules for muzzle-loading safety. Chapter 14 explains why accidents don't occur at trap and skeet clubs. Chapter 15 explains the importance of eye and ear protection. Loud noises damage your hearing. Chapter 17 lists items for firearms safety in the home. This book should be placed in every school library.