Loading Rifles and Shotguns

Even something as simple as loading or unloading a firearm can result in tragedy if it isn’t done properly. To load a firearm safely:

• Point the muzzle in a safe direction.
• If the firearm has a safety, put the safety on if you can open the action and load the firearm with the safety on.
• Keep your finger off the trigger and outside the trigger guard.
• Open the action. Make sure the firearm’s chamber and barrel are clear and unobstructed.
• Load the correct ammunition into the chamber or magazine.
• Close the action.
• Put the safety on if it is not on already.