You never fool around or play with guns. Guns are dangerous when they are not handled or used properly and can easily injure or kill you, and those around you. There are no second chances with a gun and the rules for safe gun handling must always be followed to avoid accidents.
The 12 Golden rules for Safe Gun Handling
- Always treat the gun as loaded.
- Always keep the gun pointed in a safe direction.
- Always keep your finger straight and off the trigger until you are ready to shoot.
- Always keep the gun unloaded until you are ready to use it.
- Never point the gun at anything you don’t intend to destroy.
- Be sure of your target and what is beyond it.
- Learn the mechanical and handling characteristics of the gun you are using.
- Always use proper Ammunition.
- Be sure the barrel is clear of obstructions before loading and shooting.
- If your gun fails to fire when the trigger is pulled, hold your shooting position for several seconds; then with the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, carefully unload the gun.
- Don’t rely on the gun’s safety to keep it from firing.
- Be aware of your surroundings when handling guns so you don’t trip or lose your balance and accidentally point and/or fire the gun at anyone or anything.
Range Safety
- Follow the 12 golden rules.
- Know and follow all the rules of the Shooting Range.
- Listen and do what the Range Master tells you to do.
- Uncase and case your gun at the shooting bench, never behind the safety line.
- Always keep the barrel pointed down range.
- Always keep the gun on safe until you intend to shoot.
- Always wear eye and ear protection when shooting.
- Never shoot at water or hard surfaces.
Hunting Safety
- Follow the 12 golden rules.
- When hunting in a group, always pick one person to act as a Safety Officer for the Day or Trip.
- Establish and share everyone’s zone of fire with each other and know where everyone is at all times.
- Always keep the gun on safe until you intend to shoot.
- Never climb over anything with a loaded gun in your hand or on your person.
- Never use a scope on a gun as Binoculars.
- If you fall or trip, control your muzzle. Afterward, check the gun for damage and/or obstructions in the barrel.
- When in Doubt; Don’t shoot.
Always remember that guns are not toys and should be treated with respect.