Effective December 15, 2010, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife changed their guidelines for distance learning. Students are now required to spend a minimum amount of time on each course page before proceeding to the certification exam.

Click here to go to the latest version of the Today's Hunter in Washington online course—the official hunter education course of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Go to the new Washington course

The following course material is for reference only. Please go to the new course to complete your Washington certification.

1.3 Firearm Safety Rules

1. Treat every firearm as if it were loaded. Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction.

2. Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to fire. Use your safety…but remember that safeties sometimes fail!

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

4. Never place or carry a loaded firearm in or on a motor vehicle.

5. Never use a firearm unless you are familiar with how it works.

6. Be sure the barrel and action are clear of obstructions.

7. Never cross a fence, climb a tree, cross a stream, or jump a ditch with a loaded firearm.

8. Never point a firearm at anything you do not want to shoot. Never shoot at a flat, hard surface or water.

9. Unload firearms when they are not in use. Store firearms and ammunition separately.

10. Never use alcohol or drugs before or during shooting.

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Official hunting safety course for Washington hunters last modified: October 29, 2010
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