The Firearms Safety Code: Seven Basic Rules of Safe Firearms Handling

 

1. TREAT EVERY FIREARM AS LOADED
   • Check every firearm yourself.
   • Pass or accept only an open or unloaded firearm.
2. ALWAYS POINT FIREARMS IN A SAFE DIRECTION
   • Loaded or unloaded, always point the muzzle in a safe direction.
3. LOAD A FIREARM ONLY WHEN READY TO FIRE
   • Load only the magazine after you reach your shooting area.
   • Load the chamber only when ready to shoot.
   • Completely unload before leaving the shooting area.
4. IDENTIFY YOUR TARGET BEYOND ALL DOUBT
   • Movement, colour, sound and shape can all deceive you.
   • Assume colour, shape, sound, and shape to be human until proven otherwise.
5. CHECK YOUR FIRING ZONE
   • THINK! What may happen if you miss your target? What might you hit between you and the target or beyond?
   • Do not fire if you know others are in your firing zone.
6. STORE FIREARMS AND AMMUNITION SAFELY
   • When not in use, lock away the bolt, firearm and ammunition separately.
   • Never leave firearms in a vehicle that is unattended.
7. AVOID ALCOHOL AND DRUGS WHEN HANDLING FIREARMS
   • Good judgement is the key to safe use of firearms.