Watch for HuntSAFE Classes

            Most of South Dakota’s hunting seasons are a long way off but that doesn’t mean that hunting shouldn’t be on the minds the state’s first-time hunters.
            Young people ages between the ages of 12 and 16 and their parents should be watching their local media for notices about HuntSAFE classes being scheduled in their area. HuntSAFE classes teach the basics of safe gun handling and hunting ethics.
            All young people 12 through 15 years old, as well as those who will turn 12 by Dec. 31 who want to acquire a license to hunt this fall are required to successfully complete a HuntSAFE class and possess a HuntSAFE card while hunting.
            Parents are encouraged to attend with their children. People wishing to brush up on their safe hunting skills are also encouraged to attend. HuntSAFE classes are sponsored by Game, Fish and Parks as well as local community sponsors.
            Students interested in attending a HuntSAFE class can also check the department Web site to see if classes have been scheduled in their area. Students can check to see if there is a class scheduled in their area at www.sdgfp.info/Wildlife/hunting/Safety/HuntSAFEIndex.htm.
            “The Web site already has classes listed in Aberdeen, Canton, Huron, Nisland, Rapid City, Sioux Falls and Viborg,” said HuntSAFE Coordinator Curt Robertson. “We update the Web site as soon as we hear about the scheduling of a new class, so keep checking back.”