The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds hunters to be safe during the first season of general shotgun deer hunting. 

The first season of general shotgun deer hunting began on Saturday and goes until Wednesday, before the second season takes place Saturday, December 9th through Sunday, December 17th. Iowa DNR Conservation Officer Eric Hoffman says to ensure the safety of all hunters, you should plan out your hunt and share that plan with others.

“We’re really encouraging people before they go out, whether it’s with a group or if they’re just sitting waiting for deer, to discuss the plans of their hunt and then hunt their plan. And what we mean by that is, figure out a good plan, especially if you’re going to do a deer drive. Figure out where everybody is going to be and then stick to that plan and don’t deviate from it because a lot of times when our accidents occur, incidents occur, it’s usually that there’s a deviation from that plan.”

Hear more about safety tips for general shotgun deer hunting season from Eric Hoffman on today’s In Touch with South Central Iowa.