Assemblyman Bill Reilich (R,C,I-Greece) reminded constituents today that safety is their top priority while hunting this season.
"I encourage all of this season’s hunters to remember outdoor safety," Reilich said. "Be aware of your surroundings, and make sure you are seen by other hunters."
According to Assemblyman Reilich, hunters can stay safe by practicing a few safety tips:
Assume that every gun is loaded, point your gun in a safe direction, keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot, be sure of your target and beyond, and wear hunter orange clothing.
Over the past 10 years, 15 game hunters in the state have been killed by other hunters because they were mistaken for deer or bear, said Reilich. Every one of these victims was from that small minority of hunters who did not wear hunter orange, he added. There are no reports of hunters wearing hunter orange apparel who were mistaken for game and killed.
"Wearing hunter orange will make you visible to others in the area," Reilich said. "Hunters who wear hunter orange are seven times less likely to be shot than those who don't wear it."
Constituents with questions or concerns may contact Assemblyman Reilich’s office at 2300 W. Ridge Road, Rochester, NY 14626, or call (585) 225-4190.