South Dakota is home to some of the greatest hunting in the nation. The traditions run deep, and hunting is a part of our heritage. After every hunting trip, it’s important to double-check that everyone does their part to ensure safety while having firearms in your home. Even if you don’t have any in your home, you may come across a firearm at a friend's or relative’s house, and it’s important to be familiar with and understand how to properly handle it. Below are a few important tips to make sure we’re all doing our part to promote firearm safety.
- Store your firearms locked and separate from the ammo.
- Firearm storage options:
- Cable Lock- Runs through the barrel or action of the firearm to prevent it from being loaded and fired.
- Available for free through the Watertown Police Department
- Lock Box- Needs a special code or biometrics to access the firearm.
- Gun Case- Can lock case with an external lock. This also provides safe transportation for your firearm.
- Full-Size Gun Safe- Allows you to safely store multiple firearms in one place. Need special code to access guns inside safe.
- If there are signs of mental health struggles in your home, ask a trusted family member or friend to store your firearms in their house while you focus on helping those who need it. This removes all access to firearms for the individual who may be contemplating suicide.
- Teach everyone in your household the key firearm safety principles and how to safely handle a firearm. Even if someone doesn’t plan on hunting or shooting, knowing how to safely handle a firearm will keep them safe if they ever need to deal with a situation when a firearm is present.
- It’s common to borrow firearms when going out hunting. However, don’t hesitate to ask how to properly use a firearm if you’re unfamiliar with it. Know how to use the safety and how to load and unload.
- Take a HuntSAFE course whether you’re a hunter or not. HuntSAFE courses are required for youth hunters ages 12 through 15, however, participants of all ages are welcome. More information on course options can be found at https://gfp.sd.gov/hunter-education/.
This article was provided by South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks in Watertown:
Brandon Maahs, Hunt Safe Coordinator
Cassy Behnke, Naturalist