In Mississippi, there are three seasons — summer, football and hunting. While the summer swelter is behind us and football season is in full swing, it must be time for hunting season. Mississippi is prime deer hunting territory, as well as many other species. But the deer season here is special.

Gun seasons in zones 1 and 3 — Warren County zones — begin with youth hunts Nov. 6. A full list of hunting seasons can be found at the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks website — www.mdwfp.com

Most hunters in Mississippi are experienced. They have passed hunter safety courses. They are alert and attentive. They act responsibly. However, as is the case in many endeavors, there are those who are sloppy and unprepared. In hunting, the lack of attention to detail could lead to disastrous results.

• Be safe climbing in and out of tree stands. Make sure harnesses are secure. Every year, heartbreaking stories appear of someone falling from a tree stand, breaking his or her neck and altering life forever.

• Tell someone where you will be hunting. Don’t go on an outing alone, either. And check the weather forecast before the hunt.

• Dress for the elements. Always keep a worst-case scenario in the back of your mind.

• Check and maintain all hunting equipment after each hunt. Practice and familiarize yourself with the equipment before taking it into the woods.

• Identify the target before shooting.

• Wear plenty of orange. Make yourself easily visible to other hunters. If someone is with you on the hunt, dress him or her in orange as well.

• Don’t ride a 4-wheeler or try to climb a tree stand with a loaded gun. It’s a recipe for disaster.

We wish all the hunters in this area a wonderful hunting season. We also implore every hunter to follow a few safety tips. A safe hunt is a successful hunt.