The Wyoming Game and Fish Department announced that hunting season is officially underway in the Cowboy State and used the occasion to stress a handful of practical safety measures that can keep hunters and the public out of harm’s way.
Vehicle safety tops the list
Hunter Education Coordinator Katie Simpson explained that the most common hunting‑related accidents in Wyoming involve a vehicle. “Most incidents happen when a firearm is loaded inside a vehicle or when a rider unintentionally bumps the trigger,” Simpson said. The second most frequent cause, she added, is “obstacle crossing” – situations where hunters move through uneven terrain without proper awareness.
Secure firearms while driving
Wyoming law permits drivers to transport a loaded firearm, but Simpson cautions that it is not always the safest practice. “The best way to ensure safety is to unload and case the firearm before placing it in a vehicle,” she advised. While it may feel like an extra step, the department believes it can prevent injuries or even fatalities.
Know your target and what lies beyond
Simpson recounted a real‑world example near Cheyenne that underscores the importance of clear target identification. A hunter pursuing a pronghorn on a ridgeline missed the animal; the stray bullet traveled roughly a mile before striking a car on Interstate 80. No one was injured, but the bullet shattered a window, illustrating how a missed shot can affect innocent bystanders.
Season overlap and visibility requirements
Hunters should also be aware of overlapping seasons. During periods when big‑game archery and rifle hunters share the same terrain, the department requires anyone hunting large or trophy animals with a firearm to wear fluorescent orange or pink clothing, regardless of the weapon used. Archers are exempt from this requirement during a special archery‑only season.
Four basic firearm‑safety rules
Game and Fish reiterates the classic four rules of firearm safety: keep the gun pointed in a safe direction, keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot, be sure of your target and what lies beyond, and store firearms securely when not in use. Simpson emphasized that these principles apply whether you are loading a rifle in a truck or taking aim from a stand.
Additional safety reminders
- Always check that the firearm is unloaded before loading it into a vehicle.
- Use a proper case or lockable container for transport.
- Wear high‑visibility clothing when hunting during overlapping seasons.
- Stay aware of roadways and other public areas that may be within range of a missed shot.
Report violations
If you witness poaching or any wildlife‑related violations, the department encourages you to report them promptly. Tips can be submitted by calling 1‑877‑WGFD‑TIP, texting the keyword “WGFD” to 847‑411, or submitting an online tip through the department’s website.
By following these guidelines, hunters can enjoy a successful and safe season while protecting fellow outdoor enthusiasts and the broader community.
Original reporting: Sheridan Media (Sheridan WY) — read the source article.
