PRACTICE FIREARM SAFETY

Hunters and other sportsmen should make firearm safety a top priority.  Accidents with firearms don’t just happen.  They are caused by haste, carelessness or disregard for safety rules. With hunting season at hand, hunters should review and practice firearm safety rules.  Below are guidelines for firearm safety:

>Treat every gun with the respect accorded to a loaded gun.

>Watch that muzzle.  Be able to control the direction of the muzzle even if you should stumble.

>Be sure the barrel and action are clear of obstructions and that ammunition is of the proper size for the gun you carry.

>Be sure of your target and know what lies beyond your target before you pull the trigger.  Rifle trajectories can travel 1mile or further.  Know the identifying features of the game you hunt.

>Unload guns when they are not in use.  Take down or have actions open.  Guns should be carried in cases to the shooting area.

>Never point a gun at anything you do not want to shoot.

>Never climb a fence or tree, jump a ditch or climb into a stand with a loaded gun; and never pull a gun toward you by the muzzle.

>Never shoot a bullet at a flat, hard surface or water.

>When target practicing, be sure your backstop is adequate.

>Store guns and ammunition separately beyond the reach of children and careless adults.

>Avoid alcoholic beverages before and during shooting.

>Always abide by hunting laws and regulations.  Many laws are for safety purposes.

HORTICULTURE TIPS:

Time to plant bulbs for spring growth.  Use falling leaves as a mulch