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Firearm Safety
1. Do not handle a firearm you do not know how to operate!
If you are unfamiliar with how a firearm functions do not handle it. Find someone who does and can properly instruct you on how to handle the firearm safely.
2. Treat every firearm as if it is loaded!
Every firearm should be treated as if it is loaded at all times.
3. Always keep all firearms pointed in a safe direction!
This is the key to making sure that even if a firearm were to be fired when not intended the risk of injury would be minimized. Common sense should dictate what the safest direction is depending on the circumstances. Never point a firearm at something you are not willing to destroy.
4. Keep all firearms unloaded until ready to use!
Whenever you first handle a firearm follow these steps:
- Engage the safety on the firearm if applicable.
- Remove the magazine from the firearm if applicable.
- Open the action and inspect the chamber to be sure it is empty.
If you do not know how to perform the actions above see rule #1!
Even after performing the actions above, see rules #2 and #3.
5. Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to fire!
When handling a firearm do not touch the trigger until you are ready to fire. Until that time your finger should remain extended outside of the trigger guard.
6. When shooting know your target and what is beyond!
Always be aware of what is behind your target and do not shoot at a target that is in front of something you would not want to shoot.
Child Firearm Safety
While safety is the number one concern for all responsible firearm owners, it is especially important when children are involved. Children need to be taught early that firearms are not toys and adults must make sure that their firearms are responsibly stored at all times.
The Pennsylvania Firearm Owners Association is a firm supporter of the National Rifle Association's Eddie Eagle GunSafe program which teaches children what to do if they encounter a firearm.
1. Stop!
The child should immediately stop what they are doing.
2. Don't touch!
This step is meant to help counteract the inquisitive and curious nature of children that may cause them to handle the firearm. This is the most important idea to impress upon a child.
3. Leave the area!
The child should immediately leave the area where the firearm is located.
4. Tell an adult!
After leaving the area of the firearm the child should be instructed to find a trusted adult and tell them about the firearm. While the adult may not be familiar with firearms themselves, common sense would dictate that an adult will be able to make a better, and in turn safer, decision on how to handle the situation.
From PAFOA. [1][2]
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Originally Posted by Ulf
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