Police and Fish & Game rangers join forces in 'safe hunting' initiative

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Safety is the key concern according to Fish & Game rangers and police as they prepare to again join forces to check game bird hunters - especially this Opening Weekend.

The joint approach is aimed at educating hunters and promoting hunting safety along with compliance with not only Fish & Game hunting regulations, but also the laws surrounding the use of firearms and ammunition.

This approach has been well received by hunters in recent years, with many taking time out from hunting to chat to police and rangers, Fish & Game officer Anthony van Dorp said.

"It's a very positive inter-agency approach and can only lead to good outcomes and increased compliance and hunter safety," he said.

Fish & Game wants to remind hunters now before the season gets underway, to remember the seven key rules of firearms safety.

"In particular, leave any alcohol consumption until after hunting is finished for the day and guns are locked away.

"On a similar note, please keep the security of valuables including guns and ammunition firmly in mind.

"Even if hunters think they are well away from the public, don't leave guns and ammunition in vehicles - take them with you. Thieves don't need any help."

Mr van Dorp said it was also timely to remind hunters about the supervision of hunters who don't hold a firearms licence themselves, including junior or new hunters.

The law clearly states the unlicenced hunter can use a firearm under the direct supervision of a licenced firearms holder.

"This doesn't mean that both can shoot together at the same time.

"The firearms licence holder must focus their full attention on supervising the unlicenced hunter, to ensure they are acting safely and carefully, so only one gun can be used at a time," Mr van Dorp said.

In particular, new hunters should be given guidance on shooting zones, always pointing a gun in a safe direction, and taking care around the loading and unloading of them.

Hunters can expect joint visits from Fish & Game and police to a maimai, where they will be required to unload their gun, make it safe and present their ammunition for inspection.

Fish & Game rangers will check hunting licences, which must be carried at all times, and inspect any birds shot, as well as any other matters around hunting rules and regulations.

Mr van Dorp said police would ask to see firearms licences, check no one's drinking alcohol in possession of a firearm, and focus on any other issues around guns and ammunition security.

"If everyone's doing the right thing, a visit doesn't take long, and generally includes a friendly chat about how the day's going and season prospects."

While many checks are carried out over Opening Weekend, Fish & Game rangers will carry out further checks throughout the season so hunters can expect to see a ranger any time.

"It is worth repeating that most hunters are careful and are doing the right things."

Basic Rules for Safe Firearm Handling

1. Treat every firearm as loaded
Check every firearm yourself and pass or accept only an open or unloaded firearm.

2. Always point firearms in a safe direction
Loaded or unloaded, always point the muzzle in a safe direction.

3. Load a firearm only when ready to fire
Load the magazine only after you reach your shooting area. Load the chamber only when ready to shoot. Completely unload before leaving the shooting area.

4. Identify your target beyond all doubt
Movement, colour, sound and shape can all deceive you. Assume colour, shape, sound, and shape to be human until proven otherwise

5. Check your firing zone
Think! What may happen if you miss your target? What might you hit between you and the target or beyond? Do not fire when you know others are in your firing zone

6. Store firearms and ammunition safely
When not in use, lock away the bolt, firearm and ammunition separately. And never leave firearms in a vehicle that is unattended

7. Avoid alcohol and drugs when handling firearms
Good judgement is the key to safe use