The Importance of Preparing for Emergencies While Hunting

The Importance of Preparing for Emergencies While Hunting

No matter how experienced you are, hunting always carries inherent risks. Remote terrain, unpredictable weather, wildlife encounters, equipment failures, and navigation errors can quickly turn a routine hunt into a dangerous situation. Preparing for emergencies isn’t optional—it’s a critical part of responsible, safe hunting.

This guide explains why preparedness matters, the essential safety and survival gear every hunter should carry, and how to build a reliable response plan that protects you and your hunting partners. If you're planning your next adventure and want access to vetted outfitters and professional guidance, be sure to explore options on Find A Hunt.

Why Emergency Preparedness Matters in the Field

Hunting Often Occurs in Remote Areas

Whether you're chasing elk in mountain timber, walking upland coverts, or slipping along swamp edges for whitetails, cell coverage may be weak or absent—and help can be hours away.

Weather Changes Fast

Cold fronts, blizzards, thunderstorms, and sudden fog can quickly create life-threatening situations, especially in mountains or wetlands.

Accidents Can Happen

Common field incidents include:

• Falls on steep slopes

• Knife or broadhead injuries

• Twisted ankles

• Hypothermia or heat exhaustion

• Accidental cuts while field dressing

Wildlife Encounters

Bears, hogs, moose, snakes, and even aggressive deer can pose real danger under the wrong circumstances.

Equipment Failures

A broken boot, dead flashlight, or lost GPS can escalate into an emergency if unprepared.

Essential Gear for Emergency Preparedness

1. Navigation Tools

Never rely solely on your phone. Carry:

• GPS unit with offline maps

• Compass + basic map reading knowledge

• Paper map of your area

• Power bank or spare batteries

2. First-Aid Kit

Customize a compact kit that includes:

• Bandages, medical tape, and gauze

• Tourniquet

• Antiseptic wipes

• Trauma shears

• Pain relievers and blister care

• Tweezers and small scissors

• Elastic wrap

A well-stocked kit can stabilize injuries until help arrives.

3. Fire & Warmth

• Waterproof matches or lighter

• Firestarter or ferro rod

• Emergency bivy or space blanket

• Compact insulating layer

Fire can prevent hypothermia, boost morale, and serve as a signal.

4. Communication

• Satellite messenger or PLB (Personal Locator Beacon)

• Handheld radio in group hunts

• Pre-loaded emergency contacts

Satellite devices have saved countless hunting trips from disaster.

5. Hydration & Nutrition

• Water filtration device

• Extra water bottle or bladder

• High-calorie snacks or energy bars

Dehydration or low energy levels increase risk of poor decisions and accidents.

6. Light Sources

• Headlamp with extra batteries

• Compact backup light

Many mishaps occur in darkness—light is a critical safety tool.

7. Knife & Tools

• Sharp fixed or folding knife

• Multi-tool or small repair kit

• Duct tape and paracord

These allow field repairs, signaling, shelter building, and emergency fixes.

Planning for Emergencies

Establish a Hunt Plan

Before heading out, share this information with someone you trust:

• Exact hunt area

• Expected route

• Planned return time

• Vehicle location

• Contact info for hunting partners

If something goes wrong, responders will know where to begin looking.

Know the Terrain

Study maps for:

• Steep areas

• Water crossings

• Thick brush or swampy zones

• Escape routes or alternative paths

• Potential hazards (cliffs, old mine shafts, deep mud)

Preparation reduces surprises.

Weather Monitoring

• Check forecasts before departure

• Use weather apps or satellite devices

• Be ready to change plans quickly

In the backcountry, the weather dictates everything.

Safety Strategies While in the Field

Control Your Pace

Fatigue leads to bad decisions. Take breaks and hydrate often.

Hunt With a Partner When Possible

Two hunters can assist each other in emergencies—but always maintain visual safety awareness.

Use Safe Firearm Handling

• Identify your target

• Maintain muzzle discipline

• Keep safety engaged until ready to shoot

Many emergencies stem from avoidable firearm accidents.

Watch for Wildlife Sign

Know when to back out or give wildlife space—especially in bear, hog, or moose country.

Stay Aware of Your Location

Regularly check your map, note land features, and avoid tunnel vision while tracking animals.

Emergency Scenarios & How to Handle Them

Lost or Disoriented

• Stop moving—panic wastes energy

• Calmly assess surroundings

• Check GPS or map references

• Build a small fire if nightfall is near

• Activate a satellite SOS if necessary

Injury in the Field

• Stop bleeding using pressure or a tourniquet

• Stabilize fractures or sprains

• Stay warm and hydrated

• Contact help using a satellite device

Sudden Weather Shift

• Seek cover away from ridges and open areas

• Add insulation layers

• Build fire if hypothermia risk is present

Dangerous Wildlife Encounter

• Retreat calmly without running

• Make noise to announce your presence

• Use deterrents where legal and appropriate

• Know species-specific safety behavior

Every region has its unique set of wildlife risks—prepare accordingly.

Top Emergency Items Every Hunter Should Carry

A simple “minimum essentials” list includes:

• Navigation tools

• Headlamp + spare batteries

• Firestarter

• Knife/multi-tool

• First-aid kit

• Emergency blanket/bivy

• Water filter

• Extra food

• Paracord

• Rain shell

• Satellite communicator

These lightweight items dramatically increase your survival odds.

FAQs: Emergency Preparedness for Hunters

Do I really need a first-aid kit for short hunts?

Yes. Most accidents happen within a mile or two of the truck.

Are satellite messengers worth it?

Absolutely—especially in mountainous or remote areas with no cell coverage.

How important is a hunt plan?

It’s one of the most effective lifesaving steps and takes minutes to complete.

What should I do if weather changes suddenly?

Add layers, seek shelter, stay dry, and avoid exposed terrain.

How much water should I carry?

At least 2–3 liters, more in hot or arid environments.

Prepare for Every Hunt with Confidence

Emergencies can happen on any hunt, from a backcountry elk trip to an afternoon squirrel stroll. With the right gear, planning, and mindset, you can greatly reduce risks and stay safe no matter where you roam.

If you’re gearing up for your next hunt and want help finding trusted outfitters who prioritize safety and professionalism, start comparing options through our hunt marketplace.