ST. JOHNSBURY- Hunting here began well before Vermont became a state. With that, hunter regulation and safety courses have started shooting up.
This past weekend, hunters of all ages attended a hunter safety course at Linwood Smith Archery. They learned valuable hunting skills, including how to properly use firearms. According to Linwood Smith, the goal of the class is to also change the perspective people have on guns.
"Firearms," said Smith. "There is nothing wrong with them. They are safe if they are handled right."
In the Granite state, the sport of hunting is also a very popular sport. The New Hampshire Fish and Game offer hunters the "Ten Commandments of Hunting Safety." The commandments are as followed:
1. Treat every firearm with the same respect due a loaded firearm
2. Control the directino of your firearm's muzzle
3. Be sure of your target and what is beyond it
4. Be sure the barrel and action are clear of obstructions
5. Unload firearms when not in use
6. Never point a firearm at anything you do not intend to shoot
7. Never climb a fence or tree, or jump a ditch or log, with a loaded firearm
8. Never shoot a bullet at a flat, hard surface or water
9. Store firearms and ammunition separately
10. Avoid alcoholic beverages or other mood-altering drugs before or while shooting