Ten Commandments of Firearm Safety from the NRA

ALWAYS control the muzzle of your firearm. Keep it pointed in a safe direction at all times.

Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire. This is the best way to prevent an accidental discharge.

Treat every firearm as if it were loaded and keep it unloaded until ready to fire. It might be, even if you think it isn't.

Know your target and what is beyond. 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.

Check your barrel and ammunition. Make sure the barrel and action are clear of obstruction. Does the information on the ammunition box and on the barrel of your firearm match?

Unload firearms when not in use. Carry unloaded firearms in cases when not actively being used and when traveling.

Point a handgun only at something you intend to shoot. Avoid all horseplay with a gun.

Don't run, jump, or climb with a loaded firearm. Unload before you climb a fence or tree, or jump in a ditch. Be aware of where the muzzle is pointed at all times.

Store firearms and ammunition separately and safely. Store in secure locations.

Avoid alcoholic beverages before and after shooting. Alcoholic beverages and mind/behavior altering substances impair coordination and judgement.