Deer hunters are reminded to follow safety measures

With deer season underway, the Wisconsin DNR is urging hunters to keep COVID-19 safety measures in mind and use the online reporting system to report their deer.

“Hunting is a long-established tradition in Wisconsin,” said DNR secretary Preston D. Cole. “However, with the pandemic, it is up to each of us to keep our communities healthy and safe this deer season.”

As hunters new and old make their way into the woods this season, it’s recommended they follow all the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) COVID-19 safety precautions, including wearing a mask, keeping six feet of distance from others and avoiding crowds.

Anyone who has ever experienced Wisconsin’s famed gun deer season, knows it’s a tradition bigger than any buck. As Wisconsin continues to see record-setting numbers of positive cases of COVID-19, health and safety is paramount.

The DHS discourages social gatherings of any size, including getting together with friends or extended family during hunting season at deer camp. The less time spent with people from other households, the less likely people are to get sick or spread COVID-19 to others.

Try to lodge in a separate room, tent or trailer, and limit the number of households using shared spaces.

Although activities such as heading to camp or gathering at check stations are often considered an integral part of hunting season, extended physical or close contact increases the risk of COVID-19 transmission.

While deer camp will look different this year, there are still ways to enjoy the social aspects of deer hunting and mentoring through video chats, text messages and other creative ideas that keep everyone safe. Hunters are reminded to register their deer online or by phone.