Archived Outdoors
Stay safe during hunting season
It’s hunting season in Western North Carolina, and non-hunters are encouraged to be proactive about ensuring their safety while in the woods.
Wear bright-colored clothing, such as neon or hunter orange, to make yourself more visible, and avoid neutral colors. Dogs should also wear a bright-colored vest or bandana.
- Make noise to alert hunters of your presence. Talk, whistle or sing, and if you hear shooting, raise your voice to let hunters know you’re around.
- Know your own comfort level — if hunting makes you uneasy, do some research to find out where it’s not allowed and hike there instead.
Fees from hunting licenses go to the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission, which helps maintain wildlife habitat and many roads in the national forests. Seasons and regulations are posted at www.ncwildlife.org/hunting/hunting-in-north-carolina.