11 Firearm handling safety measures

With the nature of South Africa’s escalating criminal climate and increased violence in housebreakings, residents are resorting to their own measures when it comes to safeguarding their families. If you own a firearm or are considering acquiring one, always keep the following gun handling safety measures in mind.
1. Your firearm is most secure on your body in a quality approved holster – never tuck it into your belt, pants waistband or pocket. A holster molded for the make and model of your firearm should be able to hold it securely, even if it held upside down and given a light shake. You should be able to run, climb or lie down and still have the gun remain in place.
2. If you’re new to carrying a holster practice taking it off and putting it back on repeatedly, as this will increase your administrative handling and decrease the chances of an accidental discharge.
3. When not under your direct personal control, the only other acceptable place to store a firearm is in a prescribed safe that conforms to SABS standards. Never simply store it in a cupboard, under the bed, in a cubbyhole, etc.
4. Bolting is an imperative part of the safe’s security features and, regardless of a safe’s weight, isn’t properly installed unless bolted to a wall or the floor.
5. Ensure the key to your safe is kept on your person at all times. If the safe has an access code, never divulge the code to anyone, especially your children.
6. When not in use or while kept in storage, always keep the gun unloaded. Should a child accidentally gain access to it, it’s safest that there isn’t a round in the chamber.
7. Always teach your children that a firearm isn’t a toy and that playing with it will only lead to accidents. Set an example in this regard and never handle your firearm unnecessarily, joke around with it, or handle it when intoxicated.
8. When handling your gun, always point the muzzle in a safe direction and never point it at anyone or anything you don’t want to shoot.
9. Always treat it as if it was loaded.
10. Always know your target and what is beyond it. Ask yourself, where is my bullet going to land?
11. Tell your children what to do if someone shows them a firearm in your absence. Make sure they know to immediately leave the room and tell someone. Let them report any unsafe behaviour.
If you have children, always be excruciatingly consistent with your gun handling safety measures. Children are incredibly curious and will always test their boundaries, so ensure you turn their inquisitive moments into teachable moments. Remind your child that the firearm is yours and shouldn’t be touched, and set up and reinforce gun handling rules.
Do you own a firearm? Which gun handling safety measures do you stick to?