Official Kansas bowhunting safety course Link to Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks

Hello, bowhunter! Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks no longer offers an online option for bowhunter education. Visit Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism website for information on classroom training.

The following course material is for reference only.

Chapter 8: Outdoor Preparedness
Think Safety

  • Prior to each use, check your bow and arrows for signs of damage or wear.
  • Only point your bow and arrow in a safe direction.
  • Only nock an arrow when it’s safe to shoot.
  • Be sure of your target and what’s in front of it, immediately behind it, and beyond it.
  • Never shoot over a ridge.
  • Only shoot when you have a safe range or shooting area, as well as a safe backstop or background.
  • Do not shoot at an animal standing on a ridge top (a "skyline" shot) where you can’t identify a safe background.
  • Keep your emotions under control, and think about safety first.
  • Do not drink alcohol or take mood-altering drugs before or during bowhunting.
  • Hunt and shoot within your own physical limitations.
  • Exercise regularly and stay in good shape, especially before strenuous hunts.
  • Let family or friends know exactly where you will be hunting.
  • Always carry broadheads in a sturdy quiver that fully covers razor-sharp blades.
  • Dress properly for the worst weather conditions you might encounter.
  • Carry basic survival gear every time you go afield, even for short hikes.
  • Clearly identify the specific game animal you intend to shoot before releasing an arrow.
  • Carefully cross barriers or obstacles with arrows secured in a quiver.
  • When climbing into an elevated stand, always attach yourself to the tree from the time you start climbing until you are back on the ground.
  • Use a full-body harness, attached so that you drop less than a foot if you fall.
  • Always use a haul line to bring your gear into your elevated stand and to lower your gear when you’re through hunting–don't climb or descend with a bow in your hand.
Kansas Department of
Wildlife and Parks
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Official bowhunting safety course for Kansas bowhunters last modified: December 27, 2011
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