Firearm Safety 101

Every year, events in the news prompt us to rethink gun control and gun safety. More and more, we realize that while guns can provide safety, a mechanism for hunting and other hobbies, and an outlet for stress on the range, they are dangerous and even a simple mistake can lead to deadly consequences. If you are thinking about purchasing a gun to protect yourself, your children, and other family members, it’s important to have a basic rundown of the simple facts before attempting to use one at all. Not all guns are the same and therefore, some firearms will have unique safety features and requirements that you should follow on an individual basis. However, all firearms safety measures start with the same basic ideas and principles. Here are some of the most important safety principles for firearms safety to get you started:

• You should always assume that every firearm you approach is loaded and handle accordingly. You may “know” that you unloaded your firearm, but you may not be correct or may have forgotten, and you should never trust another person’s word when it comes to a gun.
• Just because you’re a dead shot doesn’t mean you don’t need to pay attention to the area around your target. Bullets ricochet. Some bullets completely penetrate their target. Never shoot when people are in the shooting area.
• Never accept a gun that is loaded. More importantly, never accept a gun that is pointed at you or another person.
• Before handling a gun, you must prove that it is safe. Proving that a firearm is safe means guaranteeing that the gun is unloaded and cannot harm anyone else.
• Know your ammo. Always use the ammunition that is made for your firearm. Never attempt to modify your ammunition.
• Never clean your firearm without first proving that it is safe to do so.
• Do not assume that putting your firearm on safety will eliminate the possibility of a tragedy. Keep your firearm locked away, separate from your ammunition.