Hunting News

Follow a few safety rules while enjoying upland bird opener

LINCOLN, Neb. – Excitement is building for Nebraska upland bird hunters as the Oct. 30 opener of the pheasant and northern bobwhite season approaches.

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission reminds hunters of the following safety tips when pursuing upland game:

  • Always keep the shotgun’s muzzle pointed in a safe direction.
  • Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire.
  • Properly identify your target and what lies beyond it before pulling the trigger.
  • Know where everyone in your hunting group is located at all times and be in direct communication. Keep shots in your safe zone of fire, approximately 45 degrees in in front of you, and do not swing on game in the direction of your partners.
  • Wear hunter orange. Blaze orange on your head, chest and back will make you more visible to those around you and has been responsible for an 80% drop in hunting incidents since the 1970s.
  • Be sure to completely unload your firearm when crossing obstacles such as barbed-wire fences, ditches and creeks.

Hunting continues to be a safe family-oriented activity in Nebraska, with the number of incidents dropping to an all-time low since recordkeeping began in the 1970s. By following a few simple safety tips, hunters and their families can enjoy their time spent afield.

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