The Doctor Is In

by Hank Clever, MD

Director, Community and Denominational Relations

SSM St. Joseph Health Center, SSM St. Joseph Hospital West, SSM St. Joseph Health Center–Wentzville

Nov. 27, 2006

SAFETY IS TOP PRIORITY DURING HUNTING SEASON

It’s that time of year again – deer and turkey season. Thousands of hunters are spreading across the state to participate in the sport, and while hunting isn’t considered a highly dangerous activity by national hunting interest groups that cite statistics showing fewer injuries per thousand participants than for most other sporting activities, including golf, hunting injuries are reported each year.

Last year, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reported 10 firearms-related hunting injuries, one of which was fatal. A recent MDC news release states, “One of the most striking lessons to be learned from 2005 deer hunting accident reports is that hunters most often are injured by the person with whom they spend the most time hunting - themselves.”

In general, about half of hunting-related gunshot wounds are self-inflicted. For instance, in some cases, hunters place their hand over the gun’s muzzle when they are cleaning the gun or checking the safety, not expecting the gun to discharge. Other firearms injuries typically involve family or friends in the victim’s hunting party. “No one should have to live with knowing he or she injured a loved one this way. That’s why it’s crucial to be an educated hunter and follow standard safety rules,” says David McCollister, MD, a trauma surgeon on staff at SSM St. Joseph Health Center.

Dr. McCollister notes that wearing orange vests and hats, hunting only during broad daylight, keeping a clear sight line, and always knowing the location of your companions are among the most important safety guidelines. The MDC requires hunters born during or after 1967 to complete an approved hunter education program prior to obtaining a permit.

However, while firearms injuries seem to get the most media attention, Dr. McCollister says that he sees far more injuries involving hunters who fall from deer stands, the elevated platforms that allow hunters to more easily spot their prey. Falling from the stand or while climbing into or out of it can cause serious injury, especially from heights of more than 20 feet, although most stand-related injuries are relatively minor.

“My stepfather has hunted for more than 70 years without any serious injuries,” Dr. McCollister says. “He’s a safe hunter because he always pays attention to the tree stand, checks the condition of the steps, uses a safety harness, and lifts his gun into the stand with a rope.” By climbing into the stand unencumbered by gear and then hoisting guns and other supplies into the stand, hunters can help ensure they do not shoot themselves while climbing or lose a tenuous grip and fall to the ground on ascent or descent.

Hunters should always tell someone who will not be with them where they are going and when they expect to return, carry a charged cell phone and first aid kit, and refrain from moving an injured hunter if the victim complains of any neck discomfort or numbness. Any injury should be reported immediately.

Another important precaution: don’t drink and hunt. “Firearms and alcohol are a dangerous combination,” Dr. McCollister says. “Save the beers for after the day’s hunt.”

Hank Clever, MD, is a well-known pediatrician in the St. Charles community. Since retiring from private practice in 1998, Dr. Clever continues to speak to community groups and organizations about a variety of health-related topics. The Doctor Is In column runs every other week in the Suburban Journals of St. Charles County.

Send questions for Dr. Clever c/o Public Relations Department, SSM St. Joseph Health Center, 300 First Capitol Dr., St. Charles, MO, 63301.