After Haliburton Highlands OPP went searching for missing hunters recently, they want to remind people in the last few days of the deer hunt to keep safety in mind. Two men got disoriented when tracking a deer on the weekend and their cellphone died when they called 911. Police are reminding hunters to make sure people know where you’re hunting and when you’ll be back and to keep a fully charged cellphone along with supplies like water, snacks and matches.
Haliburton Highlands OPP are also sending out these safety tips to hunters:
- Stay in one place if separated from their hunting partners or if you have become disoriented.
- Tell someone where you will be hunting and when you expect to be back. Take a cell phone with you if possible and keep the battery fully charged.
- When walking, let someone know where you will park your vehicle. If you become lost or injured, this will assist searchers in locating you. When lost–“hug a tree” and wait for searchers to find you.
- Dress for the weather and wear proper footwear. Fall weather can often change quickly.
- Be prepared. Pack items such as water, snacks, matches, a first aid kit, map, compass, knife, flashlight and perhaps extra gloves/socks and a wind breaker. A GPS is always a good idea.