Hunter Safety

We signed Sam up for the Hunter Safety course offered and as I was leaving to take him to class I invited John to join us. I am so glad that I did because he was handed a course booklet and blaze orange pencil as we walked in and it was assumed that he was taking the free class!

The class took place over three consecutive evenings and was 3 1/2 hours long each night! It was given by local hunting experts who lectured and showed very interesting videos.The boys were able to pay attention well, especially because the material was so appealing to them.During the 10 minute breaks, they played outside with other boys the same age.

      I allowed each boy to have a dollar each night with which to buy a refreshment. Candy bars were available for sale and we brought our own water.This little treat made a big difference to them and they really appreciated it and looked forward to it each night. Four of our other children have taken this same course over the years.Topics discussed were firearms, archery, survival skills,ammunition, and tree stand safety among others.
       I learned that one should always tell someone else where they are going in the woods and matches should be carried in a waterproof container.We were told that many of those who die in the elements had what they needed to survive in their backpack but failed to use it. When a person starts to really shiver, they need to stop and build a fire to get warm. When the body temp starts falling, rational thought isn't possible.

I took the boys to two classes and their Dad was able to take them to the one in the middle.When they got home they discussed the ins and outs of deer hunting with our resident expert who often finds it easier to draw the details! Incidentally, all three of these guys are left-handed! On the last day, I encouraged them to study for the test that night. They were excited to see that it was a multiple choice test of 50 questions. They thought that they would have to write in the answers! Both boys passed and received not only a certificate, but also a wallet card and patch!