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November 22, 2002
EAST LANSING - Michigan's deer hunting season is already underway,
but doctors continue to remind hunters of the importance of health
and safety.
"Common sense is crucial," says Dr. Taylor Scott of
MSUCOM's Department of Family and Community Medicine. "Of
the 19 deer season firearm incidents in Michigan in 2000, six were
fatalities and seven were self-inflicted accidents. Typical violations
include hunting before legal hours, no hunter education, and having
a loaded firearm in a motor vehicle. This just points out how important
common sense is in reducing harmful incidents during deer season."
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Gunshot wounds aren't the only dangers that hunters face. Health
concerns - especially heart attacks - are serious problems out
in the woods. Knowing what to do in these situations can save lives.
Common symptoms of a heart attack are: |
Taylor Scott, D.O.
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- Chest discomfort, especially heaviness or pressure in the chest area
- Unexplained jaw, elbow or shoulder pain without chest discomfort
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing deeply
- Cold sweat
Dr. Scott adds, "Hunters are exposed to the
out-of-doors as well as intense physical activity at times. Being aware
of your limits, knowing
some basic first aid, and having a means of communication for getting
help if needed is so important."
Dr. Scott says getting immediate medical attention is crucial, especially
because time is of the essence when hunters are miles away from a hospital
or even a phone. He also adds that taking two aspirin during the symptoms
has been shown to increase long-term survival rates.
"The requirement for hunter education, as well as wearing blaze
orange, has made a big impact in reducing injuries and accidental death
over the years," he adds. "But they are no substitute for a
smart, informed and safe hunter. Common sense is the most important thing."
Dr. Scott offers these tips for having a safe deer-hunting season and preventing
unnecessary injuries
- Tell somebody where you will physically be hunting so they will know
where to direct search crews if you don't return
- Carry a cellular phone with you when you are hunting so help is just
a phone call away
- Pack a first-aid kit (and make sure it includes aspirin)
- Know the fastest route to the nearest medical facility
- Be aware of the hunters around you
- Avoid alcohol. In addition to impairing your abilities, alcohol can
intensify hypothermia because it makes you feel artificially warm even
though your core body temperature is dropping
- If you develop chest pain or unexplained discomfort between the waist
and the jaw, worry about it involving your heart and seek medical attention
- Use common sense
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