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For Immediate Release
November 23, 2009
Contact: Sally Kohr
(717) 787-4651

Alloway Urges Hunters to Meet Fluorescent Orange Requirements, Observe Safety Rules 

HARRISBURG – Senator Richard Alloway II (R-33) is urging local hunters to comply with the state’s requirement to wear orange in the field to improve hunter safety. 

"Wearing orange is an important safety consideration for all sportsmen," said Alloway, who chairs the Senate Game and Fisheries Committee. "It is important to know the requirements for each season, so I would encourage hunters to check on these requirements before going out into the woods." 

Fluorescent orange requirements may vary based on regions and seasons. During bear, deer, elk, and all small game seasons, hunters are required to wear a minimum of 250 square inches of fluorescent orange visible from 360 degrees on their head, chest and back.  

The Pennsylvania Game Commission 2009-10 Hunting Digest, available online at www.pgc.state.pa.us,  includes all of the fluorescent orange requirements for each season.  

Alloway also urged hunters to observe basic safety tips provided by the Pennsylvania Game Commission to help keep hunters safe: 

• Always identify the target—never point or shoot at sounds or movement; these may in fact be other hunters.

• Pre-elect a zone of fire—only fire on a target in that predetermined zone and only when certain it is safe to do so.
• Be seen—wear the mandated amount of fluorescent orange clothing and avoid wearing blue, white and/or red as these can be easily confused with colors on a wild turkey.
• Plan your hunt, then hunt your plan – let someone know where you are hunting and when you will return.
• Buckle up—wear a fall-resistant restraint device when hunting from an elevated stand.
• Dress for success—dress in layers of clothing that repel moisture, insulate and block wind or rain.
• Keep fit – hunting is hard work and requires rigorous physical activity; get a check-up and follow doctor’s advice.
• Do your homework—scout hunting areas and learn the habits of the game you hunt.
• Stay found—learn how to use a map and compass or a GPS unit.
• Be prepared—carry a basic survival kit and know how to use it.