State police to open firing ranges to Ill. hunters

[November 15, 2013]  SPRINGFIELD (AP) — Hunters will get to use Illinois State Police firing ranges to test-fire and sight their shotguns in anticipation of deer hunting season.

Illinois State Police Director Hiram Grau said Thursday five ranges will be open to the public from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday.

They're located in Joliet, LaSalle, Macomb, Pawnee and Pittsfield.

Grau says the open range program is an effort to promote safety by giving hunters a chance to check their shotguns in a controlled environment with firearms experts present.

Targets will be provided and there will be no charge to use the range. But participants are asked to reserve a spot, and must have a valid Firearm Owner's Identification card.

The state police collaborate with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources for the event.

[Associated Press]

Copyright 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.