Safety is essential to a successful deer hunting season

With the Nov. 7 firearms deer opener just days away, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reminds hunters that safe hunts are successful hunts. Hunting is a safe, lifelong activity, so long as hunters prepare and make safety their top priority. The DNR urges hunters to: Ensure their firearms are in good working order. Review and practice the key tenets of safe firearms handling to prevent injuries or worse. Treat every firearm as if it is loaded Always control the muzzle Be sure of your target and what is beyond Fingers should be off the trigger until it’s time to shoot Inspect all tree-stand-related equipment for wear and tear, including safety harnesses, haul lines, the stand itself, and steps and ladders. Practice climbing into and out of the stand before the season starts, always maintaining three points of contact with the ladder or steps. Wear the required amount of blaze clothing (orange or pink) and eye and ear protection. Share hunting location and expected return