Law Enforcement Officials Promote Safety for Deer Hunting Season

 

SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois State Police (ISP) announced today its firing ranges will be open on November 12 to hunters for sighting in and test-firing their shotguns in a safe environment for the upcoming deer hunting season. Firing ranges in Pawnee, Joliet, Macomb, LaSalle and Pittsfield will be available to the public from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

 

“The Open Range program provides hunters with an opportunity to sight-in their shotguns before the upcoming hunting season,” said ISP Director Hiram Grau. “Safety is the number one priority during every hunting season, and the firearm experts from the State Police and Department of Natural Resources will be available to ensure the safe and appropriate use of shotguns,” he added.

 

The program is a collaborative effort organized every year by the Illinois State Police and Department of Natural Resources, and provides these services at no cost.

 

"The Open Range Program is a great way for hunters to be safely prepared for the upcoming seasons by honing their skills and making sure their firearms are in proper working order. Every hunting season the IDNR preaches a message of safety to our hunters so everyone can have fun and be successful in the field," said Illinois Department of Natural Resources Director Marc Miller.

 

The public is asked to call one of the ranges listed below before the scheduled date to make a reservation. Targets will be provided, and there is no charge for use of the range. Participants must possess a valid Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card and transport the firearm legally by having it unloaded and enclosed in a case.

 

Illinois State Police Ranges

Academy	Pawnee	(217) 786-6278	Pawnee Staff
District 5	Joliet	(815) 726-6377  Ext. 255	Sergeant Chris Garibay
District 14	Macomb	(309) 833-4046  Ext. 242	Trooper Neal Merry
District 17	LaSalle	(815) 224-1171	Sergeant Quillard Skinner
District 20	Pittsfield	(217) 653-5181	Trooper Brandon Douglas