Gun Safety Rules

This page will introduce you to specific gun safety rules to give you a better understanding of firearm safety.

THE SIX BASIC GUN SAFETY RULES

1. Treat all guns as if they are loaded.
2. Keep the gun pointed in the safest possible direction.
3. Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot.
4. Know your target, its surroundings, and beyond.
5. Know how to properly operate your gun.
6. Store your gun safely and securely to prevent unauthorized use. Guns and ammunition should be stored separately.

1. Treat all guns as if they are loaded.

• Always assume that a gun is loaded even if you think it is unloaded.
• Every time a gun is handled for any reason, check to see that it is unloaded. 
• If you are unable to check a gun to see if it is unloaded, leave it alone and seek help from someone more knowledgeable about guns.

2. Keep the gun pointed in the safest possible direction.

• Always be aware of where the gun is pointing. A “safe direction” is one
• where an accidental discharge of the gun will not cause injury or damage.
• Only point a gun at an object that you intend to shoot.
• Never point a gun toward yourself or another person.

3. Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot.

• Always keep your finger off the trigger and outside the trigger guard until you are ready to shoot.
• Even though it may be comfortable to rest your finger on the trigger, it is unsafe.
• If you are moving around with your finger on the trigger and stumble or fall, you could inadvertently pull the trigger.
• Sudden loud noises or movements can result in an accidental discharge because there is a natural tendency to tighten the muscles when startled.
• The trigger is for firing, the handle is for handling.

4. Know your target, its surroundings, and beyond.

• Check that the areas in front of and behind your target are safe before shooting.
• Be aware that if the bullet misses or completely passes through the target, it could strike a person or object.
• Identify the target and make sure it is what you intend to shoot. If you are in doubt, DON’T SHOOT!
• Never fire at a target that is only a movement, color, sound or unidentifiable shape.
• Be aware of all the people around you before you shoot.

5. Know how to properly operate your gun.

• It is important to become thoroughly familiar with your gun. You should know its mechanical characteristics including how to properly load, unload and clear a malfunction from your gun.
• Obviously, not all guns are mechanically the same. Never assume that what applies to one make or model is exactly applicable to another.
• You should direct questions regarding the operation of your gun to your firearms dealer, or contact the manufacturer directly.

6. Store your gun safely and securely to prevent unauthorized use.Guns and ammunition should be stored separately.

• Even when the gun is not in your hands, you must still think of safety.
• Use a California-approved firearms safety device on the gun, such as a trigger lock or cable lock, so it cannot be fired.
• Store your gun unloaded in a locked container, such as a California-approved lock box or a gun safe.
• Store your gun in a different location than the ammunition.
• For maximum safety you should use both a locking device and a storage container.

ADDITIONAL SAFETY POINTS

The six basic safety rules are the foundational rules for gun safety. However, there are additional safety points which must not be overlooked:
• Never handle a gun when you are in an emotional state such as anger or depression. Your judgment may be impaired.
• Never shoot a gun in celebration (such as on the Fourth of July or New Year’s Eve, for example). Not only is this unsafe, but it is generally illegal. A bullet fired into the air can return to the ground with enough speed to cause injury or death.
• Do not shoot at water, flat or hard surfaces. The bullet can ricochet and hit someone or something other than the target.
• Hand your gun to someone only after you verify that it is unloaded and the cylinder or action is open. Take a gun from someone only after you verify that it is unloaded and the cylinder or action is open.
• Guns, alcohol and drugs don’t mix. Alcohol and drugs can negatively affect judgment as well as physical coordination. Alcohol and any other substances are likely to impair normal mental or physical functions and should not be used before or while handling guns. Avoid handling and using your gun when you are taking medications that cause drowsiness or include a warning to not operate machinery while taking the drug.
• The loud noise from a fired gun can cause hearing damage, and the debris and hot gas that is often emitted can result in eye injury. Always wear ear and eye protection when shooting a gun.