Tuesday, October 13, 2015

Wearing Blaze Orange Is Required of Hunters during Gun Seasons

RALEIGH, N.C. – Through its Home From The Hunt™ safety campaign, the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission reminds hunters that wearing blaze orange, also known as hunter orange, is required when hunting bear, feral hogs, deer, rabbit, squirrel, grouse, pheasant or quail with a firearm.

Hunters are required to wear a cap, hat or an outer garment in blaze orange that is visible from all sides. Anyone hunting deer during a deer firearms season, regardless of method, must wear blaze orange.

"Blaze orange isn't a color found in nature, so it is instantly recognizable as a human presence and signals caution to the viewer," said Carissa Shelton, the Commission's western outreach manager. "Going a step farther, in low-light conditions hunters should consider using a flashlight when changing locations."

The Home From The Hunt™ campaign further recommends that everyone wear blaze orange when outdoors in areas shared with hunters. Blaze orange clothing stands out against an outdoor background and studies have proven it increases visibility of the wearer in low-light situations. Blaze orange also can be helpful in locating someone lost or injured.


For more information on hunting seasons, Hunting Heritage Apprentice Permits and the Hunter Education Program, visit the Commission's hunting page.

About the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission
Since 1947, the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission has been dedicated to the conservation and sustainability of the state's fish and wildlife resources through research, scientific management, wise use, and public input. The Commission is the state regulatory agency responsible for the enforcement of fishing, hunting, trapping and boating laws and provides programs and opportunities for wildlife-related educational, recreational and sporting activities. To learn more, visit www.ncwildlife.org.

Get N.C. Wildlife Update — news including season dates, bag limits, legislative updates and more — delivered free to your Inbox from the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission. Go to www.ncwildlife.org/enews.



Media contact:
Jodie B. Owen
919-707-0187
jodie.owen@ncwildlife.org