Don't take aim at lines: Stay safe during dove season
Dove season is here, and hunters across Alabama have already headed outdoors to enjoy one of the state's favorite traditions. While the excitement of hunting season is in the air, there's one important safety reminder to keep in mind: never shoot at a bird sitting on a power or fiber line.
A dove sitting on a line may look like an easy target, but taking a shot can create serious safety hazards, damage important infrastructure and potentially leave you or your neighbors without essential services.
Power lines are never a safe target
Power lines carry electricity that can be extremely dangerous. A gunshot can damage a power line or cause it to break, creating the possibility of electrical hazards, fires or dangerous downed lines.
Even if you don't think your shot will hit the line directly, it's impossible to control every part of a shot. That's why it's important to simply choose a different target whenever a bird is perched on or near a power line.
Fiber lines matter, too
Fiber lines don't carry electricity, but that doesn't mean they're safe to shoot. A bullet or shotgun pellet can damage a fiber line and disrupt internet service for an entire area.
When a fiber line is damaged, Central Access crews will have to locate the break, make repairs and restore service to affected customers. What may seem like one quick shot can potentially create an internet outage for homes, businesses and other customers who depend on their connection every day.
If it's on a line, don't take the shot
The easiest rule to remember this dove season is:
If a bird is sitting on a line, don't shoot.
Whether it's a power line, fiber line or another utility line, wait for the bird to move to a safe location before taking your shot. Choosing a different target helps protect you, your fellow hunters and the people in your community who depend on these lines.
At Central Access, we're proud to keep our communities connected. Help us keep it that way throughout hunting season.
Hunt smart. Hunt safe. If it's on a line, let it fly.