Archery Safety Notes
Safety is the responsibility of every archer. From the moment you walk on to an archery field you should constantly be aware of possible dangers to yourself, other people and any wildlife.
The word FAST is used by archers to STOP ALL SHOOTING IMMEDIATELY. If you are on the shooting line and hear someone shout FAST, no matter what you are doing you should bring your bow down and stop shooting. If you spot a potential danger, regardless of whether you are on the line or just waiting to shoot, shout FAST. And if you don't remember the word FAST just shout anything that will stop others from shooting.
When you are handling a bow ONLY EVER AIM IT AT A SUITABLE TARGET FACE.
NEVER draw and loose the string of a bow without an arrow on it. Doing so could cause serious damage, or even complete failure of the bow.
NEVER put an arrow in the bow UNLESS YOU ARE ON THE SHOOTING LINE, and even then ONLY POINTING IN THE DIRECTION OF THE TARGET.
For your own sake, DO NOT CROSS THE SHOOTING LINE UNTIL THE SIGNAL TO DO SO IS GIVEN. The only person who is allowed to signal is the Field Captain, who is nominated at the start of any days shooting.
ALWAYS WALK TO THE TARGET, looking for arrows that may have fallen short along the way. At Oak Meadow always be aware of the danger of stepping into rabbit holes.
ALWAYS GO UP TO THE SIDE OF THE TARGET FACE. You will avoid walking into arrows and will be well to the side when the arrows are drawn.
NEVER stand immediately behind the arrows when they are being drawn, and never draw arrows from the target if someone is standing in a dangerous position.
ALWAYS ensure your clothing is suitable, with nothing that can catch in
the string and cause you injury.
