Province Reminds Hunters to Practice Safe Firearm Use

Big game moose hunting season opens for the eastern portion of the island on Saturday, October 7.

The big game moose hunt has been ongoing in Labrador and the western region since September 9.

The province is reminding hunters throughout the province to familiarize themselves with current firearm regulations and are reminded to practice safe firearm use while taking part in hunting activity this season.

In 2016, Fish and Wildlife Enforcement officers encountered 244 firearms related violations throughout the province. Common offences include possessing a loaded firearm in a vehicle, shooting from a roadway, shooting near dwellings, hunting within commercial logging operations, and shooting near a school or playground.

Officers have dealt with over 40 offences relating to improper use of firearms to date in 2017.

Hunters should practice and share the following basic rules of firearm safety:

• Always point the muzzle in a safe direction;

• Treat every firearm as though it were loaded;

• Unload firearms when they are not in use;

• Keep the action open when the firearm is stored;

• Ensure firearms are in a case when transporting to hunting areas;

• Be sure the barrel and action are clear of obstructions;

• Be sure to use the proper ammunition for the firearm being used;

• Only point a firearm at the intended target and avoid all horseplay;

• Never climb a fence, tree, or jump a ditch with a loaded firearm;

• Never pull a firearm toward you by the muzzle;

• Always attempt to control the direction of the muzzle even if you should stumble;

• Never shoot a bullet at a flat, hard surface or at water;

• Store firearms and ammunition separately; and

• Avoid alcohol and drugs when hunting.