I wanted to let you know about an opportunity to test-fire your guns and ensure they work properly before deer hunting season.

The Illinois State Police, in cooperation with the Department of Natural Resources, is opening its firing ranges in Joliet, Pontiac, Pawnee, Effingham, Pecatonica and LaSalle to hunters from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Nov. 14 for sighting in and test-firing guns. Any firearm that is legal for deer hunting, which includes shotguns, muzzle loaders, center fire revolvers and center fire handguns, is included.

Reservations are encouraged and can be made by calling ahead to the state police district offices. Targets will be provided. There's no charge for use of the range.

Participants must have a valid firearm owner ID card and transport the firearm legally by having it unloaded and in a case.