The DNR is reminding hunters to make safety their top priority during the upcoming gun deer season.
Last year, nine people were injured by firearms and one was killed during the nine-day hunting season, which is above the 10 year average of 6.8 incidents per year.
Most of the incidents are a result of the unsafe handling of a loaded gun by hunters who have had hunting experience.
The easiest way to keep safe is to follow the rules taught during hunter safety; treat every firearm as if it is loaded, always point the muzzle in a safe direction, be certain of your target, what is before it, and what is beyond it, and keep your finger outside of the trigger guard until you are safe to shoot.
In addition, hunters must follow all hunting regulations and only take aim during legal shooting hours.
Anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 1973, must have a hunter education certification to purchase a hunting license unless hunting under the Mentored Hunting Law.
