6 Basic Gun Safety Rules

Whether you are the owner of a firearm or live in the home of someone who owns firearms there are six basic gun safety rules that should be followed by everyone. If anyone who might come in contact with that firearm understands the following six basic gun safety rules than the odds of everyone staying safe are extremely high.

1. Until able to prove otherwise, assume all firearms are loaded – always treat a firearm as if it is loaded until you are able to assess otherwise, even if you just had the firearm in your hands say an hour ago, be sure to check it again if you’re going to handle it again and if for some reason you are unable to verify it is unloaded leave it alone.
2. Point the firearm in the safest direction – be aware at all times of where the firearm is pointing, and make sure it is pointed in the safest direction possible, which means if it were to fire it would do the least amount of damage, never point a firearm at another person or yourself and only point of firearm at something you intend to shoot.
3. Do not put your finger on the trigger until you are ready to pull it – although it is more comfortable to keep your finger on the trigger it is also more dangerous. Be sure to keep your finger off the trigger until the moment you are ready to shoot. If your finger is on the trigger and you trip you could inadvertently pull it by accident. Also, loud noises sometimes startle us generating a muscle memory response which could also accidentally discharge the firearm.
4. Know what is beyond your target – we would all like to think we have the ability to shoot perfectly, however the reality is that we miss sometimes. Due to our imperfectness it is imperative that we know what is beyond the intended target. If we know what is beyond our target and we miss we are aware of what we might accidentally shoot.
5. Be able to properly operate your firearm – understanding the mechanics of a firearm is just as imperative is understanding what is beyond the target. Knowing how to properly load and unload a firearm is essential. It is also important to understand how to clear a malfunction, should one occur.
6. Understand why storing your firearm safely is important – one of the most essential pieces of owning a firearm is always being a safe as possible. One of the best ways to be safe with a firearm is by storing it safely and properly. Using a safety device on the gun and storing the firearm in a locked container is the best option. Also, storing ammunition in a different location will maximize your safety options.

Being the owner of a firearm or living in a home with a firearm is a big responsibility. By following the six basic gun safety rules listed above a home with a firearm can keep everyone as safe as possible.