Firearm deer hunters should think safety first

With Nebraska’s November firearm deer season approaching, Nebraska Game and Parks reminds hunters to review firearm safety rules and take precautions to help prevent hunting incidents.

“Our goal is always zero hunting incidents,” said Nebraska Hunter Education Coordinator Kyle Gaston. “By following these safety practices, hunters can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone in the field.”

The four primary rules of safe firearm handling are:

• Treat every firearm as if it is loaded.
• Always point the muzzle of your firearm in a safe direction.
• Be sure of your target, what is in front of it, and what is beyond it.
• Keep your finger outside of the trigger guard until you are ready to fire.

Hunters also must wear at least 400 square inches of hunter orange material on their head, chest and back during the nine-day November firearm deer season, regardless of hunting with a firearm or archery equipment.

Tree stands and elevated hunting blinds offer several advantages for big game hunters, but they also require additional safety precautions.

“Elevated hunting offers better vision of surroundings, concealment from wildlife, and a safer backstop when shooting at a downward angle,” Gaston said. “However, we always need to put safety first by remembering the ABCD of tree stand safety.”

• Always inspect your equipment before going out hunting.
• Buckle your fall-arrest harness securely.
• Connect your harness to the tree before your feet leave the ground.
• Destination – Make sure you share your stand location with others before each hunt.

Hunters should take additional precautions in dry conditions. Driving vehicles or parking on dry, tall grass is a wildfire threat. Grass can ignite within seconds of contacting hot vehicle components, such as exhaust systems and catalytic converters.

Those who drive in dry conditions should take these actions:

• Restrict driving to established roads and trails.
• Avoid parking vehicles in tall vegetation.
• Dispose of cigarettes and other flammable objects appropriately.
• Make sure no chains are dragging from your vehicle.
• Carry a fire extinguisher in the vehicle.

The firearm deer season is Nov. 14-22. Hunters must have permission to access private land, whether to hunt or to track wounded deer.

Visit OutdoorNebraska.gov to learn more about hunter education and to read the 2026 Big Game Guide for deer regulations.

If you witness a game violation, call Nebraska Wildlife Crimestoppers toll-free at 800-742-7627 or visit OutdoorNebraska.gov and search for “Wildlife Crime Stoppers.”