New Hampshire Fish and Game Officials Urge Blaze Orange Use

New Hampshire Fish and Game officials are urging hunters, hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts to make blaze orange their fall fashion statement.

With hunting season underway for some game, officials say wearing a fluorescent orange hat, vest or jacket makes one readily visible and distinguishable.

Josh Mackay, coordinator of the hunter education program, says wearing orange has decreased hunting accident nationwide.

He also urges hunters to positively identify targets before shooting.

The average number of hunting accidents in New Hampshire each year has declined steadily since hunter education courses became mandatory in the 1970s.

In the 1960s, hunting-related accidents averaged 21 a year. Since 2002, accidents have averaged just over three per year.

Officials recommend orange pet accessories as well.