TEN TIPS FOR FIREARM SAFETY IN YOUR HOME
TEN TIPS FOR FIREARM SAFETY IN YOUR HOME
Christmas is only eleven days away. And I’m sure like every year, numerous adults and kids will be unwrapping their first firearm. But not all of those new firearm owners are familiar with proper and safe firearm storage at home. Fortunately, our National Shooting Sports Foundation friends have written up Ten Tips for Firearm Safety at Home.
- Always keep the firearm’s muzzle pointed in a safe direction. A “safe direction” means that the gun is pointed so that even if an accidental discharge occurred, it would not result in injury.
- Always keep your finger off the trigger until you actually intend to shoot. When handling a gun, rest your finger outside the trigger guard or along the side of the gun. Don’t touch the trigger until you are actually ready to fire.
- Firearms should be unloaded when not actually in use. Whenever you pick up a gun, such as when removing it from or returning it to storage, remember to point it in a safe direction and make sure it is unloaded.
- Be sure you know how your firearm operates: read the manual on your firearm, know how to safely open and close the action of the firearm and know how to safely remove any ammunition from the firearm and its magazine.
- Store your firearms in a locked cabinet, safe, gun vault or storage case when not in use, ensuring they are in a location inaccessible by children and cannot be handled by anyone without your permission.
- Store your ammunition in a locked location separate from firearms.
- Use a gun locking device that renders the firearm inoperable when not in use. A gun lock should be used as an additional safety precaution and not as a substitute for secure storage.
- Make sure young people in your home are aware of and understand the safety guidelines concerning firearms. Have them sign the Project ChildSafe Pledge for young people—a reminder that if they find an unattended firearm in their home or a neighbor’s to not touch it, and tell an adult.
- Always unload, clean and place your firearms in their secure storage location immediately after returning from a hunting trip or a day at the range.
- Educate everyone in your family about firearms safety. Visit the Project ChildSafe website for safety information and to find out where to get a free firearm safety kit in your area.
Are you giving a firearm as a gift this year? Why not include the Ten Tips for Firearm Safety at Home in the box? Download a printable version here.
By Cassie Shockey, Customer Programs Manager & LTC Instructor
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Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or stepping into the range for the first time, what you wear matters more than you might think. The right range attire isn’t just about looking good — it’s about staying safe, comfortable, and focused. Here’s a quick guide to help you dress smart for your next trip to Shoot Smart or any indoor or outdoor shooting range. Shirts: We recommend wearing a crew neck shirt or something with similar coverage. Avoid low-cut tops — flying brass casings can be hot, and you don’t want them making contact with your skin. While long sleeves aren’t required, short to mid-sleeves offer a good balance of protection and comfort. Shoes: Closed-toe shoes are a must. No sandals, no flip-flops, and definitely no high heels. Stable, comfortable shoes help protect your feet from stray brass and give you a solid stance while shooting. Pants: Wear pants that fit comfortably and fall over your footwear — avoid tucking them into boots, as this creates a spot for hot brass to collect (and trust us, nobody wants that surprise). Jeans, cargo pants, or any durable, non-restrictive pants work great. Accessories: Leave large, dangling earrings at home. They can catch on gear or earmuffs and become a distraction. Cowboy hats, while stylish, aren’t recommended at the range — they can obstruct your vision and interfere with hearing protection. Instead, opt for a ball cap. It’s perfect for helping deflect hot brass away from your face and hair. Nails: Consider keeping your nails trimmed to a practical length. Long nails can make handling and firing certain firearms awkward and may even interfere with trigger control and reloads. And don’t forget — proper hearing and eye protection are required at all times inside the range. Firearms are loud, and repeated exposure without adequate hearing protection can cause permanent damage. Likewise, eye protection shields your eyes from stray brass, powder residue, and debris. Whether you bring your own gear or rent from us, make sure you’re always protected before stepping onto the range. Safety first, every time! A Few More Smart Tips Avoid loose, flowing clothing that can snag on gear or firearms. Tie back long hair to keep it clear of your face and shooting equipment. Bring a light jacket or pullover if you’re unsure about the indoor range temperature — but remember, short to mid-length sleeves offer good protection without restricting movement. Final Thoughts Dressing appropriately for the range isn’t about rules for the sake of rules — it’s about creating a safer, more comfortable shooting experience for you and everyone around you. When in doubt, go for practical, snug-but-comfortable clothing that covers and protects while still allowing you to move freely. Ready to hit the range? Gear up, dress smart, and we’ll see you on the lanes!
Whether you're a seasoned firearm enthusiast or a new gun owner, safety should always be your top priority. Responsible gun ownership goes beyond knowing how to shoot—it’s about creating a culture of safety, both at the shooting range and in your own home. In this post, we’ll explore essential safety practices every firearm owner should follow, starting with the controlled environment of the shooting range and extending into the day-to-day responsibility of home firearm safety.
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