Springfield, Mo. – With firearm deer season set to open this Saturday, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is urging hunters across the state to complete essential safety checks before heading into the field.

Visibility and property awareness

Hunters are advised to wear hunter orange to stay visible to others, especially in areas with heavy traffic. Those hunting on private land should confirm property boundaries to avoid accidental trespassing, while hunters on public land need to stay aware of fellow shooters.

“Make sure you know where those boundaries are so you don’t cross over and accidentally trespass into a neighboring property,” said Sara Karnes, public information officer for MDC’s southwest office. “And if you’re going out onto a public land area where there’s lots of other hunters, make sure you know where everyone is. Knowing what’s behind your target before you shoot is crucial.”

Tree‑stand safety

Anyone planning to use a tree stand should inspect the stand for stability and always wear a properly fitted safety harness. Karnes noted that injuries often occur when hunters climb in and out of stands without adequate precautions.

“We all know somebody who has been hurt coming in and out of their tree stand,” she said. “So make sure you take your time, make sure your harness is secure and well‑fitted. And just make sure, again, you want to go home at the end of the day after a fun day. So take your time, be safe, and make sure your firearms are unloaded while you’re getting in and out of your tree stand.”

Permits and season timing

Hunters who have not yet purchased a hunting permit should do so before the season begins. The firearm deer season runs from a half‑hour before sunrise to a half‑hour after sunset each day through November 24.

In counties designated for chronic wasting disease monitoring, hunters must bring harvested deer to mandatory sampling sites for testing. A map of these sites is available through the MDC website.

Final reminders

By following these safety steps—wearing orange, confirming boundaries, securing tree stands, and obtaining the proper permits—Missouri hunters can enjoy a safe and successful opening weekend.

Original reporting: KY3 Springfield (local) — read the source article.