Firearm Safety

A gun that is kept in the home is 43 times more likely to kill a family member or a friend than to kill in self-defense. It is shocking to find that in 1995, 14 children, under the age of 19, were killed with guns each day in the United States. Even more shocking, in 1995 alone, 35,957 Americans were killed with firearms, in homicides, suicides, and accidents. In comparison, 33,651 Americans were killed in the Korean War, and 58,148 Americans were killed in the Vietnam War.

Owning a firearm is a full time responsibility, especially if you have children. You must ensure the safe use that firearm, keeping it away from children and other irresponsible individuals. There are some basic safety rules, which can be followed to help you protect yourself and others.

• Understand the operation of any firearm before attempting to use it.
• Always have your firearm pointed in a safe direction.
• Never point your firearm at anyone or anything you do not intend to shoot.
• Keep your firearm unloaded when not in use.
• Treat every firearm as if it was loaded.
• Do not allow your firearm to be handled by anyone who does not know the rules of gun safety, or who does not understand how it should be safely operated.
• Store your unloaded firearm separate from your ammunition. Always keep both in places that are inaccessible to children and other individuals who are not permitted to use it.
• Instruct your children, if they find a gun:
• Do not touch the gun.
• Leave the area immediately.
• Tell an adult that they trust where the gun can be found.
• Never use alcoholic beverages or other drugs before or during shooting.
• Be alert at all times. Never shoot if you are tired, cold, or impaired in any way.
• Never cross obstacles such as fences or streams with a loaded firearm.
• Always think before shooting.

In regards to ammunition:

• Firearms are designed for ammunition of a specific type and caliber. Do not alter the barrel, slide, or chamber of a gun.
• Never use a cartridge not specifically designed for use in your firearm. Excessive pressure can damage or even blow up a firearm.
• Make sure your barrel is clear and free of obstruction. If you see an obstruction, have it serviced. Never fire a firearm with an obstructed barrel.

In regards to transportation and storage:

• Never transport or store your firearm in a loaded condition.
• Store unloaded firearms separately and in places inaccessible to children.
• Protect your firearms from theft.

Many safety features are incorporated right into the firearm itself; however, for your safety and that of others you should never rely on mechanical features alone. It is your responsibility to put safe gun-handling habits into action. Accidents occur when these habits are violated and common sense is ignored. For your own sake, and that of your family, ensure the safe use of your firearm.