It is a fact that many people don't know the function, operation or features of their firearm.  Read your firearm owner's manual from cover to cover so you thoroughly know your gun. You should also practice taking apart your shotgun or rifle and inspect it thoroughly.   Knowing what your firearm looks like normally, will allow you to recognize any abnormalities of the gun in the field. If you drop your weapon or fall with it, immediately take it apart and check it for damage.

Always keep your gun unloaded until you are ready to start hunting. If you are going to hike to a new location and have no chance of seeing any game, unload your guns before starting out. Never haul a loaded rifle around in your vehicle or on your ATV.   Know the ammunition you are using and how it performs with your firearm.  Sight in or check the zero of your rifle before you get to the field.

When setting up your shot, there are many things to consider before you pull the trigger. Never, ever take a shot at a partially obscured target. Make absolutely sure you identify your prey before raising your gun to take the shot. If you're in any doubt about what is moving, control yourself and your emotions, don't shoot!

You should always know what's in front of and behind your target before squeezing the trigger. Don't shoot animals that appear on hilltops and near the tops of ridges as you can't see or identify what may be behind the animal. Don't use the gun's scope to look for your game. Use your binoculars first, and if the shot is clear, switch to the scope.

Never look down the barrel of a weapon for any reason. Keep your muzzle pointed away from yourself and others at all times. Learn and use various safe carrying positions for carrying your rifle or shotgun while hunting.

Never hunt or handle a gun if you have been drinking or taking medication that may impair your judgment. Be sure to get plenty of sleep the night before your trip and go home early if you find yourself becoming tired or exhausted.

Wear your safety gear.  Bring along hearing and eye protection and wear them before shooting. Include safety orange in your choice of head gear and upper body clothing. This helps other hunters in the area distinguish you from the prey. Getting shot because you were mistaken for a deer is a sure way to ruin your day. Always think safety first when hunting.

Mark all downed game with colorful flagging, an article of clothing or material. When field dressing or transporting a recently-killed animal, always wrap safety flagging, a brightly colored scarf or shirt around the animal's head or body.

Remember the four rules of firearms safety:

• Assume all firearms are loaded
• Always keep the firearm pointed in a safe direction
• Keep your finger off the trigger until on target and ready to fire
• Know your target and what is beyond it

Some additional safety considerations to ensure a safe hunting experience are to tell someone where you will be hunting.  Avoid outings alone. If you go alone, be extra careful and hunt in familiar areas.  Dress properly and be prepared for the worst possible conditions. Check the weather forecast before going into the woods. Check hunting equipment before and after each outing, and maintain it properly. Always wear enough blaze orange to be highly visible to other hunters.

A little pre-hunt preparation can go a long way.  I hope everyone has a successful and safe hunt.  Be safe....