Firearm and Hunting Safety

The key to hunting safety is your ability to handle a gun in the right way.

Three Basic Rules • Treat every gun as though it is loaded.

• Always point the muzzle in a safe direction.

• Be sure of your target - and beyond.

Be Extra Alert When...

• You are inexperienced.

• When you are carrying a gun over obstacles.

• When you are plinking.

• When you first spot game.

• When a hunting partner forgets or ignores the safety rules.

Loading a Gun • Point the muzzle in a safe direction.

• Open the action and check for correct operation. Leave the action open.

• Load the magazine. Count your shells.

• Close the action, loading the chamber.

• Make sure the safety is on. Double check.

• Prepare to carry your firearm safely.

Unloading a Gun • Point the muzzle in a safe direction.

• Open the action to unload the chamber.

• Remove the clip, empty tube, etc..

• Shells should only be ejected from the magazine by working the action if it is impossible to unload the firearm without doing so.

• Count the shells.

• Double-check the magazine and the chamber. Make sure the gun is on safety.

Carrying a Firearm • Double-hand or Ready • Cradle Care • Elbow Carry • Shoulder Carry • Sling Carry • Trail Carry

Rules for Carrying • Make sure the safety is on.

• Keep your finger outside the trigger guard.

• Always point the muzzle in a safe direction and keep it under control.

• Keep the firearm unloaded until you begin to stalk game.

Crossing Rough Terrain • Unload your firearm, or at least unload the chamber. Be prepared to protect your firearm if you should fall. Control the direction of the muzzle.

• Wear non-slip boots and never run or jump with a loaded firearm.

• To safely cross a fence, unload, or at least open the action. Lay the gun down and point muzzle in a safe direction. Check muzzle for obstructions when you pick it up.

Shooting Positions •Standing •Sitting •Kneeling •Prone

Above All…...

•Safety Begins and Ends With You!