Unfortunately, some hunters forget the special safety precautions that apply to these vehicles. Rough weather or a snag in a river can quickly capsize a boat. You may be a great swimmer, but a dunk in frigid water will leave you numb in moments. Wearing a PFD could mean the difference between life or death. Mountain bikes and three and four wheel vehicles are now commonly found in the woods, and all riders should wear a helmet to protect themselves in the event of a fall.
Many hunters use pick up trucks, campers or recreational vehicles as part of their base camp.
Make sure that your hunting vehicle is in good repair and that you always have proper ventilation when using heating systems. Bring your own, safe supply of drinking water, or boil or treat water before drinking it. Wild animals serve as the host to a variety of parasites, but very few of them become problems for hunters. However, wildlife transmitted diseases have been reported in Washington in recent years, including Lyme disease and bubonic plague. While these are not common, they are potentially present.