Essential Tips for Safe Deer Hunting in the Black Hills | Lifestyle

Rapid City, SD – Deer hunting season begins today in the Black Hills. It is important to remember how to hunt safely in the Black Hills. NewsCenter1 spoke with Pennington County Sheriffs about what to remember before going hunting.

The Black Hills are known for their excellent hunting. It is also known for its rugged terrain. So, if you are lost, it is important to have someone with you, or at least to let people know where you are. Craig Wood, a captain with the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, said, “We always recommend that if you’re going hunting, especially in the Black Hills, you take a friend or partner with you. In case something happens, you have someone. They may call you or go for help. This is one of those safety factors. If you do decide to go out on your own, we always emphasize that you tell someone where you’re going to hunt, when you’re leaving, and when you’re expected to be back.”

With such rough terrain. Anyone going hunting should plan how to navigate even if your phone stops working. Wood added, “We like to talk about how you navigate while hunting. Many people use their mobile phones correctly, just like the one I have. You may have different navigation apps that most hunters use. I use it myself. But if your cell phone breaks, if it gets wet, the battery will die. Then you no longer have this navigation. This is why I would recommend having a paper map in your backpack for backup and for navigation purposes.”

If you do get lost in the forest without a connection, there are ways to try to find it. Wood said: “So if you do get lost and maybe there’s no signal on your cell phone. If you get to a high place where you can call or just text to let someone know you are lost. And I also say that if you are lost and think you need help, don’t wait until it gets dark. If you call us when it’s light out, we can start work earlier. It’s much easier for us to find you.”

Capt. Craig Wood says if you’re planning on going hunting, be sure to pack an emergency kit with everything you’ll need if you get stuck in your car for a few days.

If you get lost, the safest option is to simply call 911.