Rounder
Official California Hunting Safety Course Link to California Game and Fish Department

Course Overview: The Ten Commandments of Firearm Safety

Hunters carrying firearms

1. Watch that muzzle!

Keep it pointed in a safe direction at all times.

Hunters unloading firearms

2. Treat every firearm with the respect due a loaded gun.

It might be, even if you think it isn’t.

Hunter aiming at target

3. Be sure of the target and what is in front of it and beyond it.

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.

Hunters with fingers outside trigger guards

4. Keep your finger outside the trigger guard until ready to shoot.

This is the best way to prevent an accidental discharge.

Removing obstruction from firearm

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.

Casing gun for safe transport

6. Unload firearms when not in use.

Leave actions open, and carry firearms in cases and unloaded to and from the shooting area.

Safe firearm carry

7. Point a firearm only at something you intend to shoot.

Avoid all horseplay with a gun.

Two hunters safely crossing fence

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.

Firearm safe for storage

9. Store firearms and ammunition separately and safely.

Store each in secured locations beyond the reach of children and careless adults.

Never drink and shoot!

10. Avoid alcoholic beverages before and during shooting.

Also avoid mind- or behavior-altering medicines or drugs.

Separator
California Department
of Game & Fish
Course Overview
Course Material
Testing
Wildlife Guide
White-tailed deer tracks
< Back to Previous Page Table of Contents Go to Next Page >

California Hunting
License Information
Official hunting safety course for California hunters last modified: October 13, 2008
Email with questions or comments about this web site.
Copyright © 2002 - 2008 Kalkomey Enterprises, Inc. All rights reserved.
Review Hunter Ed's privacy policy.

Visit Boat Ed for boating safety certification

Logo for Boat Ed
Rounder