A wheelchair user holding a gun while hunting.
Emplify Health reminds hunters that safety goes farther than the firearm.
Hunters often walk far on uneven ground, haul gear for long distances, and sit motionless for hours in the cold.
These conditions take a toll on the body, and Emplify Health has tips to keep people safe and healthy during this year’s hunting season.
Their first tip is to get a checkup before the season starts.
Knowing your baseline health can help you know if you’re ready for these harsh conditions.
Their second tip is to ease into the activity.
Before you go out to hunt, start taking daily walks to get your body used to the conditions and strengthen your joints and muscles.
Their third tip is to pace yourself.
Taking breaks is ok, and if you’re feeling lightheaded or short of breath, sitting down for a couple of minutes can make a huge difference.
Their final tip is to hunt with a buddy.
If an injury or emergency occurs, it’s better to have someone nearby who can call for help.
They also say that if you experience an injury, don’t wait to go in.
This can cause the injury to get significantly worse than it originally was.
Emplify Health’s goal is to keep everyone safe and healthy this hunting season.
For more information, visit emplifyhealth.org.
