The Three Basic Rules of Safe Firearms Handling

The three basic rules of safe firearms handling are:

1. Treat every firearm as if it is loaded!
   • When you pick up a firearm, keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction at all times;
   • Make sure you know where the safety is and that it is on;
   • Open the action to visibly and/or physically check that the firearm is not loaded and the magazine is empty.
2. Muzzle control!
   • ALWAYS keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction;
   • Never point the muzzle at anything you do not intend to shoot.
3. Identify your target and what is beyond it.
   • Identify your safe zone of fire prior to beginning each hunt or phase of the hunt;
   • Never shoot at a skylined target or a target in front of a ricocheting surface like pavement, steel, rock, or water;
   • Never put your finger on the trigger until you have determined that you have a safe and quality shot.