Keep safety in mind while hunting deer

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At half an hour before sunrise Friday, firearm deer season opens in Illinois. With many outdoorsmen and women heading for their favorite hunting locations through Sunday, a large deer harvest may be expected. Also expected, unfortunately, are injuries to hunters. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources reported that 30 hunting-related accidents occurred in Illinois last year. Of those injured, three people died. Accidental shootings are the first injury that comes to mind. With numerous people out hunting, both this season and the 4-day season in December, chances increase that someone could stray into another's field of fire. Loaded guns can be dropped and accidentally discharge. Hunters must remember their training, and be sure to carry, handle and shoot their firearms with care. Deer stands also pose a hazard. We've heard of more than one instance of a hunter falling out of a deer stand and being seriously hurt. Safety harnesses always should be used to minimize the chance of injury. Then there's the extra physical activity that hunters put forth during the hunt. Walking long distances, climbing hills, dragging a deer carcass to the pickup in cold weather - too much exertion can lead to strains, sprains or worse. It's not unheard of for hunters to suffer heart attacks. We don't want to have to report any such unfortunate accidents associated with this year's hunting season. What we want to report is a successful hunt that culled the local deer population to a safe and manageable level. What we want to report is a lower incidence of vehicle-deer crashes for the upcoming year. What we want to report are the best recipes for venison meals being served in local homes this winter. State Sen. Tim Bivins, R-Dixon, has a phrase he likes to use when talking about problems regarding government: "If it's predictable, it's preventable." It sure seems to us that the same goes for hunting accidents. We urge all hunters to anticipate possible problems, exercise safety in all aspects of the hunt, and do all they can to prevent accidents and injuries. Good luck, and good hunting.