Hunting Safety Reminders Ahead Of Pheasant Opener

By: Melanie Bloom - Email

Updated: Tue 7:14 PM, Oct 23, 2012

Click here for information about Hunter Education Classes.

Game and Parks offers reminders for hunters preparing for the pheasant opener this weekend.

While hunting incidents are uncommon, they can happen. There were three people injured during hunting incidents in South Dakota last weekend.

Late October and early November are when hunters ramp up to get outdoors, according to Nebraska Game and Parks.

Outdoor Education Specialist Aaron Hershberger said that there are many things to keep in mind while hunting.

"Sometimes it's just remembering common sense things that keep you safe. That muzzle needs to be pointed in a safe direction, keep that muzzle pointed up or away from everybody else, maybe talking about how you're going to walk through these fields and zones of fire, where are those safe zones where everyone can take a shot," said Hershberger.

It is important to wear blaze orange clothing like vests and hats. The color is not natural to the environment and so it stands out, making a person visible from miles away.

Hershberger said that communication is critical. He encourages hunters to talk to each other. He said it is okay to do it out loud in the early part of the season because the birds haven't learned to be scared off yet.

Because incidents are rare and preventable, Hershberger said that hunting is very safe and a great way to enjoy the outdoors.

"Hunting is one of the safer outdoor activities out there, some of the safer of the organized sports, in fact. It's the beauty of it, just common sense, just keeping things safe," said Hershberger.

Hunters 12-29 years old are required to take a Hunter Education Class. They are offered for free, year round and all over the state, by Nebraska Game and Parks.