deer-300x196-3

Nearly a quarter-of-one-million Iowans go hunting each year, generating $227.9 million for Iowa’s economy, according to Hunting Works for Iowa. Keep these tips in mind to enjoy your next hunting trip safely. Archers, do not dry fire your bow. Doing so damages the weapon. A broken bow can cause serious injury to its user. For those hunting with firearms, every gun should be treated as if it is loaded at all times. If you are hunting in a group, be aware of your partners’ locations. Most firearm-related hunting injuries are caused either by self-inflicted gunshot wounds from mishandling a weapon or friendly fire within a hunting party. Lastly, keep careful track of your surroundings. Before narrowing in on a target, make sure that you are not firing in the direction of any nearby roads or inhabited buildings.