If running through the woods with a bow in your hands and a quiver of arrows on your back sounds like fun, archery may be the sport for you. As exhilarating and challenging as this hobby can be, it also involves some risks. Follow these safety rules and guidelines to avoid injury.

Basic checklist

Before using a bow, the archer should review a basic checklist to make sure the equipment is ready and safe to shoot.

1. Inspect all equipment to make sure it is working properly before shooting. Look for signs of fraying in the rope or abnormalities in the wood sections. Check the arrows on the arrows to make sure they are well attached. Then check the screw points and tighten them if necessary. Replace the plastic nocks if you find cracks. Never use equipment that shows signs of wear.

2. Remove loose clothing or jewelry, such as a watch or bracelet, that may interfere with the bow.

3. Visually inspect the range to make sure there are no people or animals.

Shooting guidelines

Follow all published rules and regulations for the venue.

1. Never point a bow at another person, even when you are not drawing. This rule is fundamental and is considered a basic etiquette.

2. Never shoot into the sky, as it is impossible to predict where it will go.

3. Never draw with people standing between you and the target.

4. Look immediately behind you before drawing to make sure no one is too close.

5. Point the bow toward the ground when you tie the knot.

6. Never shoot a bow dry. Dry firing involves pulling and releasing the string without landing an arrow. Dry firing can cause injury to the archer and damage to equipment.

Shoot and recover

At an archery range, a group of people may be shooting at a target at the same time. In this situation, they should all shoot at roughly the same time and in the same direction. After completing the shots, wait until everyone is done before retrieving the arrows.

1. Walk slowly towards the target.

2. Do not remove someone else’s arrow without asking permission.

3. Check the field to make sure no one is preparing to fire when you retrieve your arrow.

4. Pull the arrows out to avoid damaging them.

5. Inspect the ground if any arrows missed the target. Tread carefully to avoid stepping on and damaging them. To avoid potential accidents, inform others that you must move behind the target to look for missing arrows.

Last minute precautions

Keep a first aid kit on site at all times when participating in archery sessions. Have a cell phone to call for help if an emergency occurs. Don’t forget to follow the rules posted on the spot. It doesn’t matter if you are a newbie or experienced, follow these safety and etiquette guidelines.