Deer season has just begun, so hunters across Florida are gearing up for a long weekend in the wilderness. You might be excited to get out and bag your first deer of the season, but it’s important to make safety your top priority. Choosing the right hunting apparel and following the tips below will help during your next adventure.

How to Hunt Safely

1. Wear the Right Clothing

Temperatures might still be in the 90s in Florida, but that doesn’t mean you should go without proper hunting apparel. Many companies produce lightweight camo or orange shirts perfect for the Florida heat. 

You should always wear a hunter orange hat or another item to make yourself clearly visible to other hunters. A wide-brimmed hat will also keep the sun off your face, which can help prevent dehydration and heatstroke.

2. Know Basic First-Aid

Even the most experienced hunter can trip on a hidden rock, fall out of a tree, or encounter a dangerous animal. If you're injured or bitten, the nearest hospital might be hours away, so it's essential to know basic first-aid.

Learn how to safely dress scratches and put a splint on a broken bone. Carrying bandages, tape, antiseptic, and other first-aid supplies can help keep an injury from getting worse until you get back to town.

3. Use Safety Equipment in Tree Stands

Falls from trees are one of the leading causes of accidents during hunting season, so follow all safety instructions when installing your tree stand. As a general rule, avoid using permanent deer stands since they fall apart quickly in the Florida humidity.

Use a safety harness every time you’re climbing a tree and the entire time you're in the stand. If you’re startled by an animal and fall, the strap can prevent broken bones and even more serious injuries.

If you’re gearing up for deer season, Farmers Cooperative Inc. has the hunting apparel, stands, and other equipment you need. They’ve been serving hunters throughout the Suwanee Valley since 1946 and have made their name treating customers like family. Visit their website for more on their wide range of products, or call (386) 362-1459 with any questions. To browse their selection of hunting apparel and other items in person, visit their store in Live Oak today.