Almost every fall, there are reports on deaths related to hunting; many of those deaths are because of someone who was careless with, or did not know how to use, a rifle or shotgun.

Thursday, October 26, 2000

Almost every fall, there are reports on deaths related to hunting; many of those deaths are because of someone who was careless with, or did not know how to use, a rifle or shotgun.

National gun control advocates may be demanding for more gun control laws, which may include gun safety. But the fact is, a gun safety certificate, requiring several weeks of classes, is already mandatory for those ages 18 and under to receive a hunting license. Some may argue that gun safety classes should be taught as part of the regular school curriculum, others say that would encourage the use of guns, but as long as the training is offered and required, the point is moot.

The fact is, carelessness can lead to accidents no matter how much safety training a person has.

Hunting is a hobby, and even a way of life for many in greater Minnesota. The vast majority of those who hunt – including those under 18 – use safe handling practices. If they did not, hunting-related deaths would not be considered news any longer.

It would be nice if the media no longer had to report hunting-related gun accidents. But it isn’t likely, because people are human, and no matter how many times they’re told or how many laws they have to follow, they are likely to be careless.