4 Key Rules For Firearm Safety
It is crucial to receive gun safety training when you decide to pursue using a firearm. It doesn't matter if you are an experienced user or picking up a firearm for the first time, since the same rules apply to everyone. Here are some of the key rules to follow when using a firearm.
Treat Every Firearm Like It's Loaded
If you only remember one rule of firearm safety, it should be to treat every firearm as if it is loaded at all times. It's an important mindset to stay in to ensure everyone's safety around a firearm. For example, you cannot assume that there is not a bullet in the gun after firing off all rounds or that someone didn't put bullets into a gun after you finished using it. Maintaining the general assumption that the gun is always loaded is the safest thing you can do.
Only Put Your Finger On The Trigger When Ready To Fire
Another key rule is to not put your finger on the trigger of the gun until you are ready to fire it. This includes the time when you have the gun lined up with your target. Unless you have your shot completely planned and aimed in a steady manner, keep your finger off the trigger to prevent any accidents from happening.
Always Point The Firearm In A Safe Direction
Many people know that you should not point a firearm in a direction that you don't intend to shoot, including toward objects and people. However, this rule applies to all situations with a firearm, including when you are transporting the firearm in a case. When unloading your gun from the case at a firing range, you want to point the gun down range instead of toward where other people are standing. It is always safest to point the firearm toward the ground or down range.
Know What's Beyond The Target
Having a target in your sights is not enough to be safe, since you need to also know what is behind the target you are shooting at. Firing ranges have backstops that will prevent fired bullets from going any further. However, if you are not at a firing range, make sure to confirm that there are no people or valuables behind the targets. Make certain that everything behind the target is safe in case you were to miss your target.
Contact a professional to learn more about gun safety training.