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1. Treat every firearm as if it were loaded.
It might be, even if you think it isn’t. |
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2. Always keep the muzzle in a safe direction.
Keep control of the direction of the muzzle at all times. |
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3. Be sure of your target and beyond.
Be aware of what is in front of the target. Know the identifying features of the game you hunt. Make sure you have an adequate backstop—don’t shoot at a flat, hard surface or water. |
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4. Keep your finger outside the trigger guard until ready to shoot.
This is the best way to prevent an accidental discharge. |
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5. Check your barrel and ammunition.
Make sure the barrel and action are clear of obstructions, and carry only the proper ammunition for your firearm. |
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6. Unload firearm when not in use.
Leave action open; carry firearm in a case and unloaded to and from the shooting area. |
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7. Point a firearm only at something you intend to shoot.
Avoid all horseplay with a gun. |
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8. Don’t run, jump, or climb with a loaded firearm.
Unload a firearm before you climb a fence or tree, or jump a ditch. Pull a firearm toward you by the butt,
not the muzzle. |
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9. Store firearms and ammunition separately and safely.
Store each in secured locations beyond the reach of children and careless adults. |
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10. Don’t drink alcoholic beverages before or during shooting.
Also do not use mind- or behavior-altering medicines or drugs. |
The purpose of Arizona’s Hunter Education Program is to promote safe, knowledgeable and responsible hunter conduct, to emphasize the importance of wildlife management, laws and regulations, and to encourage the safe handling of firearms/bow hunting equipment. |
