Shooting can yield dangerous results if the proper safety measures are not applied. ArdMoor has compiled a list of Shooting Safety Tips* – be sure to visit our Facebook page to submit your own tips.
1. Don’t shoot alone
- If possible, bring along at least one other person. In the event of an injury, others accompanying you that will be able to assist you and get help if necessary. If you prefer to go alone, or otherwise cannot bring someone else, be sure to tell someone where you’re going and when.
2. Practise gun safety
- Treat every gun as if it’s loaded.
- Keep your finger off the trigger until you’re ready to take shot.
- Never point a gun at yourself or another person. Practise muzzle control – keep the gun’s muzzle pointed in a safe direction. The safest direction is usually toward the ground.
3. Protect your ears
- Extremely loud noises that surpass a high amount of decibels (dB) can result in damage to the inner ear which leads to hearing loss. Hearing protection should always be used when firing guns.
- There are various hearing protection devices on the market – one product we recommend is Allen Molded Ear Plugs, which use a supple polymer for effective sound reduction that remains comfortable during long periods of use.
4. Be sure of your target
- Be aware of what’s between you and your target, as well as what’s beyond your target. Consider what might happen if you miss your target – or if the bullet goes through your target and keeps going. The rule of thumb is have clear sky behind your target if shooting with a shotgun and always have ground behind your target if shooting with a rifle.
- Only shoot if you have a clear shot to ensure an effective and humane kill. That’s the shot that kills humanely while leaving the most meat.
*N.B. ArdMoor provides these tips and recommendations based on experience and general knowledge. We accept no liability or responsibility to any person or organisation as a consequence of any reliance upon the information contained in this site.