How Safe Was 2023 Hunting Season in New York?
How safe was the hunting season in New York State? A lot safer than over 50 years ago.
There were 166 hunting-related shooting incidents reported in 1966. In 2023, there were only 12, making it the second-safest hunting season on record. However, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) said 2 of the twelve resulted in fatalities that could have been avoided.
“Thanks to New York’s Hunter Education Program and hunters following the rules of firearm safety, hunting continues to be a safe activity enjoyed by thousands of New Yorkers and visitors each year,” said Commissioner Seggos.
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2 Hunting Fatalities
One fatality was from a hunter hauling a loaded firearm into a tree stand, which you should never do. The other occurred while dragging a harvested deer out of the woods with a loaded firearm, also something hunters should never do.
New York has an extremely safety-conscious generation of hunters and trappers, thanks largely to more than 70 years of dedicated efforts of volunteer Hunter Education Program instructors.
All first-time hunters must complete a safety course and pass the final exam before being able to purchase a license in the state of New York.
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Tree Stand Injuries
In 2017, the DEC began recording tree stand injuries for the first time. This year, 8 incidents were reported. One from a harness attached to the stand that broke instead of being attached to the tree. The other hunter suffered extensive injuries in a fall from not using a harness at all.
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Hunters are being reminded to follow the 'ABCs' of tree stand safety to avoid injuries or fatalities.
Always remove and inspect the tree stand before use.
Buckle on the full-body harness securely every time.
Connect to the tree before your feet leave the ground.
Unloaded guns and crossbows should be pulled up into the tree stand on a haul line rather than trying to carry them while you climb.
Learn more about tree stand incidents on the DEC’s website.
Hunting Safety 101
Most hunting-related shooting incidents can be prevented if everyone follows Hunting Safety 101:
- Treat every firearm as if it were loaded.
- Control the muzzle, and keep it pointed in a safe direction.
- Identify your target and what lies beyond.
- Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire.
- Wear hunter orange or pink.
Hunting Safety Statistics are available on DEC’s website.
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