SHOOTING ON FARM LAND (NOT AN ORGANISED GROUP)
Contact the farmer/owner of the land so they know you are on their land.
- A gun is a lethal weapon – always check your barrels are free from obstruction before use. Do not leave your gun and cartridges unattended, always lock in a car boot.
- Always carry your gun in a sleeve on a highway and public places.
- Always carry your gun broken, cartridges removed, especially when climbing gates, stiles etc.
- If your gun malfunctions, wait 20 secs with your barrels pointing down before breaking your gun and checking cartridges.
- Correct loading of gun. Barrels pointing down. Never carry mixed cartridge sizes.
- Check line of sight and position of other shooters.
- Do not shoot where line of sight is obstructed e.g. into bushes etc.
- If anyone approaches you break your gun and remove cartridges.
- Identify your target, if you can’t, DO NOT SHOOT.
- Do not rest gun against wall, fence etc.
- Wear suitable clothing and footwear. Nothing loose to catch gun.
- Dogs to be kept on lead on highways and public places and under control on land.
- Be aware of any farm animals and farm machinery.
- Parking of vehicles – no hinderance to farmer and public.
- Be aware of public footpaths etc. Do not shoot towards these.
- Damage to walls, fences etc. To be repaired whether caused by you or others. If not possible report damage to farmer. Ensure gates are closed.
- Cartridge cases, boxes and other litter to be picked up and taken away.
- New members and young shots to be given particular attention.
- Avoid shooting adjacent to houses.
- Eye and ear protection.
- No alcohol or drugs – ban from shoot if under influence of.
- Fall of shot and quarry.
- Do not get involved with “antis” if they approach you walk away.
- Carry a torch and mobile phone.
- Report to farmer, his wife etc. And check where farmer will be working and any other contractors.
- Try to have another member with you.
- Let someone know where you will be shooting and farm telephone no. Especially if shooting alone.
- If shooting with a rifle make doubly sure no person, farmer, contractor, and animal etc. In vicinity. No air shots. Always ensure there is a bank or other stop for bullet behind quarry, target etc.