Shooting can be a lot of fun–you can burn off stress, improve your skills and knowledge, and enjoy the pure entertainment of propelling a bullet into whatever target you’re aiming at. But, remember, you’re firing a real live weapon, one that was designed to be deadly. So, have a healthy respect for the dangerous potential that a firearm has. Here’s a few tips on being safe:

On legitimate shooting ranges, there will always be “range rules.” These are set up by the range master/operator. The range master will call out when you are clear to fire, when to cease fire, when to go and collect your targets, and when to fire again. He will also call out commands about such things as leaving guns unloaded and in the locked position while people are on the range. Most of these rules are common sense; only point your weapon down the range, do not walk out to your target until you are allowed to do so, have the gun safety engaged unless you are firing. They can seem a little overbearing at times, but again, remember that you’re dealing with loaded guns.

Other, non-official shooting ranges have unwritten rules. Shooting out in the hills for example, allows for a less crowded area than a range would provide, but the shooter takes on more responsibility. Many of the legitimate range rules still apply, but it’s up to you to enforce them. If there are other people around, be sure to give them their space. Only shoot in a direction where there are not any people. Be careful in choosing what you shoot at; metal objects may seem tempting targets, but they invite ricochets. Be courteous when you leave; a range will collect spent brass after a day’s shooting; wildlife won’t. So be kind and collect your empty shells when you’re done.

Shooting brings big responsibilities and can be a good thing; but you can’t afford any mistakes. Follow the range rules wherever you are.