The Ten Commandments of Shooting Safety
- Treat every firearm with the respect due to a loaded firearm.
- Watch that muzzle! Be able to control the direction of the muzzle even if you should stumble.
- Be sure of your target and beyond before you pull the trigger. Know identifying features of the game you hunt.
- Be sure that the barrel and action are clear of obstruction and that you have only the ammunition of the proper size for the firearm you are carrying.
- Unload firearms when not in use. Take down or have actions OPEN. Firearms should be carried in cases to and from the shooting area.
- Never point a firearm at anything you do not want to shoot. Avoid all horseplay with a firearm.
- Never climb a fence or tree or jump a ditch with a loaded firearm. Never pull a firearm toward you by the muzzle.
- Never shoot a bullet at a flat surface or into water. During target practice be sure your backstop is adequate.
- Store firearms and ammunition separately beyond the reach of children or careless adults.
- Avoid alcoholic beverages or other mood-altering drugs before and during shooting.