Hunt Safely: Before You Set Up, Look Up

Safe hunters identify their targets, know what lies beyond it and stay aware of nearby people, roads, homes and livestock. Just as important is knowing what's overhead. 

Look Up Before You Hunt
Before you hunt, scan for utility poles, electric lines, fiber-optic cable and communications equipment. A single shot can damage critical infrastructure, disrupt service for homes, farms, schools, businesses and emergency responders, and lead to costly repairs. In Virginia, it's also a crime to shoot at power lines. 

Make overhead hazards part of scouting and setup. If a bird is on, near or crossing in front of a line, let it go. A safe shot requires a clear target, background and path — including the sky above.

Safety Starts Before the Hunt