Archery is safe when range control is taken seriously. Every archer is responsible for noticing hazards and responding immediately to safety commands.
The fundamental rules
- Only draw a bow at the shooting line or authorised shooting position.
- When an arrow is nocked, aim only towards the target and only when the range is clear.
- Never cross the shooting line to collect arrows until the field captain or agreed range control says it is safe.
- Never shoot if somebody or an animal is in front of the shooting line or in the overshoot/safety area.
- Do not run while carrying arrows.
FAST means stop immediately
Anyone who sees a danger can call FAST. On hearing it, stop the shot immediately. If at full draw, come down safely. Remove any unshot arrow from the bow and wait for instructions. Do not assume somebody else has seen the hazard.
Typical range lines
| Line/area | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Shooting line | The controlled line from which archers shoot. |
| Waiting line | Keeps non-shooting archers safely behind those on the line. |
| Equipment area | Keeps bows, bags and stands clear of movement routes. |
| Target and overshoot area | Must remain clear while shooting takes place. |
Collecting arrows
Approach targets carefully. Watch for arrows on the ground. When pulling arrows, stand to the side and make sure nobody is standing behind the nock end. Remove arrows one at a time using safe technique.
Equipment safety
Inspect bows, strings, arrows and nocks before shooting. A damaged carbon arrow can fail violently. Never dry-fire a bow. If something sounds or feels wrong, stop and ask a coach or experienced club official.
Weather and outdoor shooting
Wind, rain, heat, cold and poor light change risk. The field captain may shorten distances, stop the session or close the range. Lightning is a reason to stop and seek appropriate shelter.
Hull Archery Club range control
Follow the field captain, current club risk assessment and any site-specific instructions at Cottingham Parks. Site conditions always take priority over a generic web guide.
Further reading and official guidance
- Archery GB Regulations and Rules of Shooting
- World Archery
- Archery GB Instructor Handbook: range commands and safety
Club note: This guide supports coaching rather than replacing it. If a coach, judge or field captain gives an instruction for safety or competition procedure, follow that instruction.