OUTDOORS: Tips for adventurers

I enjoyed the Hunting Section in the paper the other day.

As a hunter ed instructor, I would like to emphasize that everyone venturing into the hills should consider carrying “bear spray.” I understand it to be easier to use than a firearm and very effective in stopping most aggressive animal behaviors. I carry it whenever I am out and feel it would help deter most other critters that could be nasty — think female moose, wolves, mountain lions, dogs, etc.; even could be helpful in stopping a human aggressor. It is a non-lethal alternative in case you misinterpreted the behavior. It can be purchased at most sporting goods stores and was available at Costco last I checked. Non-hunters should also carry it.

Another item that most folks may not be familiar with is quik clot, a compound that is used by the military in the field to stop bleeding. It is light weight, not too expensive and should be a component in your first-aid supplies and carried in your pack with other necessities, like map and compass, etc. I found it for sale at Black Sheep in Coeur d’Alene and REI in Spokane.

All hunters, please respect private property, be sure of your target and be safe.

Looks like we all may have some tracking snow a lot earlier than usual!

RICH GERHARD

Coeur d’Alene