What is the first action a hunter should take when encountering a fence or obstacle while carrying a firearm?

The first action a hunter should take when encountering a fence or obstacle while carrying a firearm is to unload the firearm. This is crucial for safety, as it prevents any accidental discharge that could occur while maneuvering over or around the obstacle. Handling firearms responsibly involves ensuring they are unloaded during transitions like climbing over fences or negotiating obstacles to mitigate the risk of injury to oneself or others.

While other actions may involve moving with a firearm, they do not prioritize safety in the same way unloading the firearm does. Climbing over the fence quickly might seem efficient, but it poses a higher risk of accidents. Handing the firearm to a friend without ensuring it is unloaded could lead to mishandling or accidental discharge. Keeping the firearm pointed at the ground does not eliminate the risk posed by a loaded firearm while trying to navigate an obstacle. Prioritizing unloading the firearm ensures the safest possible approach when faced with these situations.