Firearm Safety Classes - DNR PRESS RELEASE

[Mayfly]

DNR NEWS - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
     
August 5, 2008

For more information, contact Captain Mike Hammer, Education Program
Coordinator, DNR Division of Enforcement (Camp Ripley), Little Falls, MN
56345; (320) 616-2504

Spring classes are now available but fill-up fast so don’t wait since
you might miss an opportunity.  For more information on classes in your
area log on to www.dnr.state.mn.us or call 1-888-MINNDNR (646-6367)

Safe hunting is no accident
Sign up for a DNR firearms safety class now

The most basic purpose of a Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
hunter education course is to teach safe, responsible firearm handling
in the field, in the vehicle, and in the home after hunting. Through
lectures, hands-on activities, and videos, students learn about
firearms, firearm safety, shooting fundamentals, and firearm and
wildlife laws.

“While hunter education courses enable safer hunting, they also help
hunters be more successful in their hunts-and emphasize ethical hunting
behavior,” said Captain Mike Hammer, DNR Enforcement Education Program
Coordinator. “Subjects covered include hunter responsibility, wildlife
identification and management, game care, outdoor survival, and more.”


Hammer said now is the time to sign up for a Firearms Safety Hunter
Education class if you plan to hunt this fall. You can’t buy a hunting
license in Minnesota and many other states unless you’ve completed the
training.

“Instructors from throughout the state are gearing up for the spring
rush right now,” Hammer said. “So now is the time to start planning
for the fall by registering for a spring class today.”

In Minnesota hunters born after December 31, 1979 must complete a DNR
Firearms Safety Training Course or equivalent course from another state
before purchasing a license for big or small game. The course is also
open those who do not hunt.

“Hunter education courses are recommended for anyone who spends time
in the outdoors, whether or not they intend to hunt, Hammer said.
“Basic outdoor skills acquired in a hunter education course can be
invaluable during any outdoor activities. For example, survival basics
can help you prepare for and deal with emergencies.” Hammer also noted
firearm safety courses also provide insight into how and why wildlife
agencies manage the resource, particularly by using hunting as a
management tool.

The youth firearm safety class consists of a minimum of 12 hours of
classroom and field experience in the safe handling of firearms and
hunter responsibility. Those 16 and older can complete the training
through an Independent Study on-line course, or by acquiring an
Independent Study guide and workbook available from a volunteer
instructor.

Spring classes are now available but fill-up fast so don’t wait since
you might miss an opportunity.  For more information on classes in your
area log on to www.dnr.state.mn.us or call 1-888-MINNDNR (646-6367)