safety isn't optional!

There are no exceptions when it comes to being safe and responsible regarding firearms.

 Safety rules must be worded forcefully so that they are never treated lightly or reduced to partial compliance.

All guns are always loaded - period!
This must be your mind-set.

If someone hands you a firearm and says, "Don't worry, it's not loaded".  Don't you dare believe them.
You need not be impolite, but verify it yourself. 

Remember there are no accidents, only negligent acts. 

Check it, verify it and don't let yourself fall prey to a situation where you might feel compelled to regrettably admit, "I didn't know it was loaded!"

Rule 2 serves as The "Insurance Policy" rule.

Whether you are involved in range practice, daily carry, or examining a gun, If the gun is assembled and in someone's hands it is capable of being discharged.

Do not allow the muzzle to cover your extremities. 

Imagine at the end of the muzzle is a laser capable of cutting off anything in its path.

Rule 3 is the most often violated rule. 

Whether on TV, in the theaters or at the range people seem fascinated with having their finger on the trigger.

Never stand or walk around with your finger on the trigger unless you are literally about to shoot.

Never fire a shot unless  you have made a conscious decision to fire and know where your gun is aimed.

If you are going to launch a projectile, it must be directed purposefully.

 As soon as the sights leave the target, the trigger-finger leaves the trigger and "indexes" alongside the frame.

Since the hand normally prefers to work as a unit - as in grasping - separating the function of the trigger-finger from the rest of the hand takes effort. 

The five-finger grasp is a deeply programmed reflex.

Under sufficient stress with the finger placed on the trigger, an unexpected movement, misstep or surprise could result in a negligent discharge. 

This is why with it's important to make a concerted effort to learn how to "index" your trigger finger along side the frame when handling any firearm you aren't shooting.

• Know what your target is
• Know what is in line with it
• Know what is behind it.
  
• Never shoot at anything you have not positively identified.
  
• Be aware of your surroundings, whether on the range or in a fight.
  
• Do not assume anything.
•  Know what you are doing.