TREAT every weapon as if it were loaded
NEVER point the weapon at anything you don’t intend to shoot
KEEP your finger straight and off the trigger until you’re ready to shoot
KEEP your weapon on safe until you’re ready to shoot
1. ALWAYS point the muzzle in a safe direction.
This is the primary rule of weapons safety. Even rubber band toy guns should be treated in a safe manner.
A safe direction means that the gun is pointed so that even if it were to go off it would not cause injury or damage. The key to this rule is to control where the muzzle or front end of the barrel is pointed at all times.
2. ALWAYS keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot.
When holding a rubber band shooter, rest your finger away from the trigger. Until you are actually ready to fire, do not touch the trigger. For blow darts, keep your lips off the gun until you’re ready to shoot at the target.
3. ALWAYS keep the instrument unloaded until ready to use.
Do not load the paper dart or rubber band until you’re ready to aim and shoot at your target.
4. Know your target and what is beyond.
Be absolutely sure you have identified your target beyond any doubt. Equally important, be aware of the area beyond your target. This means observing your prospective area of fire before you shoot.
Never fire in a direction in which there are people or any other potential for mishap.
Think first. Shoot second.