GUN SAFETY

SAFETY RULES

1. Always treat a gun as if it were loaded.
2. Never point a gun (whether loaded or unloaded) at another person or at yourself.
3. Always keep the firearm pointed in a safe direction. You must also take into consideration
    that a bullet can ricochet or glance off any object it strikes, and that bullets can penetrate
    walls, ceilings, floors, and windows.
4. Give your gun to someone only after you have verified that it is unloaded and that the
    cylinder or action is open. The same applies when you are taking a gun from someone.
5. Always be certain that your target and the surrounding area are safe before firing.
6. Before firing your weapon you should routinely make sure that your firearm is in good
    working order and that the barrel is clear of dirt and obstructions.
7. When handling or cleaning your gun, never leave it unattended - it should be in your
     view and under your supervision at all times.
8. The most dangerous gun is an "UNLOADED" gun.

You should understand that a gun is a lethal weapon, capable of inflicting death or disabling injury on living targets. If not treated with the utmost caution and safety, it can accidentally discharge and result in tragic consequences for you and your family. Studies show that accidental gun deaths in the home occur most often while playing with the gun, examining or demonstrating the gun, and cleaning or repairing the gun.

If your home is like half of those in our nation, your home has a gun. As a responsible parent and citizen we encourage you to make sure all guns you may have cannot be reached by anyone who should not use them, especially children!

If you feel a need to have your gun "ready at hand" in case of personal threat, you should understand that the most dangerous condition you can keep your gun in is loaded and unsecured. If you feel the need to have your gun "ready at hand" in case of a threat, there are many products such as lock boxes, gun vault boxes etc. that can give you immediate access to your gun, but afford a great deal of security and protection for you and your loved ones.

Storage;
A gun should be stored in a location that protects it from excessive temperature changes or moisture. Maintain a record of your gun's make, model and serial number separate from your gun in case of theft. Guns should be secured by some type of locking barrier whether they are stored in a gun safe (best protection) or some type of cabinet. Glass fronted gun cabinets are very attractive but provide little security. Also, a combination lock is better than a keyed lock, due to the obvious fact that your child can find the key and use it. Also, do not store extra keys or combinations anywhere a child or burglar might find it. A rule of thumb is "if you can hide it, they can find it".  Memorize combinations and either throw them away or entrust them to a friend.

 

Children;
Educate your children at an early age. They should be taught that if they see a gun they should:
STOP! DON'T TOUCH. LEAVE THE AREA. TELL AN ADULT.  We encourage you to
reinforce these ideas by repeating this message and discussing it with your children. Talk to your child about guns. Discuss their uses and history. Answer your child's questions honestly and openly. By removing the mystery surrounding guns, your child will be far less curious about guns, and more likely to follow safety rules and to respect the gun.

Make sure your child understands the difference between a toy gun and a real gun, and the difference between "pretend" and real life. Cap guns, "laser" guns, and plastic squirt guns are toys. BB guns and firearms - such as pistols, rifles and shotguns - are not toys. Use your child's "toy guns" to teach safe gun handling.

 

 

THE TEN COMMANDMENTS OF FIREARMS SAFETY

1. Learn the mechanical and handling characteristics of the firearms you are using.

2. Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, finger off the trigger unless actually firing.

3. Firearms should be unloaded when not in use, and stored securely to prevent unwanted access.

4. Be sure the barrel is clear of obstructions before shooting

5. Be sure of your target before you shoot.

6. Wear shooting glasses and hearing protection when you shoot.

7. Never climb a tree or fence or do anything awkward with a loaded firearm.

8. Don't shoot at a hard surface or at water.

9. Never transport a loaded firearm

10. Avoid alcoholic beverages and drugs when shooting.

Hunter Safety Courses are available in Columbiana County, for additional information Check with
your local Division of Wildlife.

Click here for the Division of Wildlife Web site.