HUNTINGsmart! USA Knowledge Base
Module 11 - IN THE FIELD
CROSSING RIVERS AND STREAMS
Always unload your firearm before crossing a river or stream. If you’re hunting alone, the safest option is to walk along the waterway until you find a shallow enough section with good footing that you can safely walk across. If you’re with a buddy, you can cross the river safely if you follow these steps:
CROSSING A RIVER OR STREAM WITH A FRIEND:
STEP 1: Unload both firearms and leave the actions open.
STEP 2: Hunter ‘A’ should hold both of the firearms while Hunter ‘B’ crosses the river.
STEP 3: With both muzzles pointed in a safe direction, Hunter ‘A’ should carefully hand both firearms to Hunter ‘B’ who is now on the other side of the river. Hunter ‘B’ should verbally confirm reception of the firearms before Hunter ‘A’ releases them.
STEP 4: Hunter ‘A’ can now cross the river safely.
STEP 5: Once safely across, both hunters should safety check their firearms. Remember, someone else has just handled your firearm, so you’ll need to CHECK IT YOURSELF before continuing on your way.