Law enforcement officials promote safety for deer hunting season

[November 01, 2011]  SPRINGFIELD -- The Illinois State Police announced Monday that its firing ranges will be open to hunters on Nov. 12 for sighting-in and test-firing their shotguns in a safe environment to prepare for the upcoming deer hunting season. Firing ranges in Joliet, Pawnee, LaSalle, Macomb and Pittsfield will be available to the public from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

"The open range program provides hunters with an opportunity to sight-in their shotguns before the upcoming hunting season," said ISP Director Hiram Grau. "Safety is the number one priority during every hunting season, and the firearm experts from the state police and Department of Natural Resources will be available to ensure the safe and appropriate use of shotguns," he added.

The program is a collaborative effort organized every year by the Illinois State Police and Department of Natural Resources. These services are provided at no cost.

"The open range program is a great way for hunters to be safely prepared for the upcoming seasons by honing their skills and making sure their firearms are in proper working order. Every hunting season, the IDNR preaches a message of safety to our hunters so everyone can have fun and be successful in the field," said Illinois Department of Natural Resources Director Marc Miller.

The public is asked to call one of the ranges listed below before the scheduled date to make a reservation. Targets will be provided, and there is no charge for use of the range. Participants must possess a valid Firearm Owner's Identification card and transport the firearm legally by having it unloaded and enclosed in a case.

ISP ranges:

• Academy, Pawnee -- 217-786-6278; Pawnee staff

• District 5, Joliet -- 815-726-6377, ext.255; Sgt. Chris Garibay

• District 14, Macomb -- 309-833-4046, ext. 242; Trooper Neal Merry

• District 17, LaSalle -- 815-224-1171; Sgt. Quillard Skinner

• District 20, Pittsfield -- 217-653-5181; Trooper Brandon Douglas

[Text from file received from Illinois State Police]