Rapid City, SD – With hunting season now in full swing, the South Dakota Department of Health is issuing a timely reminder to all hunters to review and practice basic gun safety. The department points to a troubling rise in firearm‑related injuries over the past ten years, noting that deaths increased from 107 in 2016 to 148 in 2025 – a 38 percent jump.

Why the reminder matters

Between 2016 and 2025, a total of 1,243 South Dakotans lost their lives to firearm‑related incidents. In 2025 alone, there were 166 non‑fatal firearm injuries, and 70 percent of those were unintentional. These numbers underscore the importance of treating every firearm with respect and caution, especially during a busy hunting season when guns are frequently handled in outdoor settings.

Four simple rules for safe hunting

The department’s safety checklist is straightforward:

• Treat every firearm as if it’s loaded. Never assume a weapon is empty; always check the chamber before handling.
• Point the muzzle in a safe direction. Keep the barrel pointed away from people, animals, and anything you do not intend to shoot.
• Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to fire. This prevents accidental discharge while you are moving, loading, or aiming.
• Know your target and what lies beyond it. Verify what you are aiming at and ensure there is a safe backstop to avoid stray shots.

These principles are taught in basic hunter education courses and are reinforced by the department’s outreach efforts across the state.

Community response and next steps

Local law‑enforcement agencies and hunting clubs have welcomed the reminder, emphasizing that safety education saves lives and protects families. Sheriff’s offices in several counties plan to host free safety briefings at upcoming hunting events, and the Department of Health will distribute printed safety cards at sporting goods stores and outdoor retailers.

For families with children who enjoy hunting trips, the department stresses that parental involvement is crucial. Parents should model safe handling, supervise younger hunters, and ensure that all participants have completed the required hunter‑education courses.

Looking ahead

The health department will continue to monitor firearm‑related injury trends and work with the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Department to promote responsible hunting practices. By keeping safety at the forefront, the state hopes to reverse the upward trend in accidental injuries and preserve the tradition of hunting for future generations.

For more information on gun safety resources, hunter‑education classes, or to report a safety concern, visit the South Dakota Department of Health website or contact your local health district.

Original reporting: KOTA (Gray) – local — read the source article.