Mayo doctor stresses safety so you don’t visit him after hunting

Minnesota has been hunting for a week now, and the Wisconsin gun deer season is less than 10 days away.

One area physician, Dr. Paul Molling of Mayo Health System in La Crosse, says hunters who aren’t up for their usual routine shouldn’t push it because of tradition.

“Don’t overdo yourself, if you have chest or respiratory concerns,” Molling said. “Make sure your family and friends know where you are and just take it easy if you aren’t in peak health.”

Last winter, Molling saw a number of significant back injuries.

One man fell 15 feet and spent several months in the hospital.

That should be a warning, he says.

“Don’t underestimate the need to check your stands over,” he said. “Make sure the ratchet straps are tightened down, and make sure you have your chest harness on.”

Of all the items to pack during this year’s deer hunt, one item you should leave behind is alcohol.

“The main thing is it affects your judgment which can put you or others in danger,” Molling said. “And with the cold weather, it makes you more susceptible to hypothermia or frostbite.”

Make sure friends or family are aware of your location, so if they don’t hear from you, they know where to look.