Safety Rules

• Your firearm’s muzzle must always be pointed in a safe direction – never point it at anything you do not intend to shoot
• When not in use, your firearm must always be unloaded. If it is an over and under, it must be cracked open. If it is a semi-auto, the ejection port must be open and locked in place
• Approach every firearm as if it is loaded. Upon picking up the firearm, open it up to ensure it is not loaded. Always keep the firearm’s safety “on” until you are ready to fire and never touch the firearm’s trigger until you are ready to shoot
• Never shoot your firearm until you know exactly what your shot is going to strike. Shotgun pellets can travel up to 500 yards so be certain nothing is beyond your intended target
• Always use the proper ammunition. If you bring your own, you must first have it approved by your NILO guide. If you do not bring your own, your NILO guide will provide proper ammunition for you.
• If your gun fails to fire, immediately alert your NILO guide and shooting partners. Point the gun in a safe direction, place the gun on “safe,” remove your finger from the trigger-area and hand the gun, stock end first, to your NILO guide
• Ear & eye protection are a must at all times. Before clay shooting begins and prior to hitting the field for pheasants, chukar or mallards, ensure that you and your shooting partners are wearing ear and eye protection. Ear and eye protection will be provided by your NILO guide if you did not bring your own
• Your firearm’s barrel must be clear of any obstructions before you shoot. Before you shoot, always make certain that there is no ammunition in the gun and that the barrel is completely clear of any obstruction
• Clean and service your firearm regularly and leave any sort of alteration to a professional gunsmith. A properly maintained firearm will last indefinitely. Check with the firearm manufacturer for recommended service
• Learn how to safely handle your firearm. Each firearm is unique in its own way. If you do not bring your own firearm, your NILO guide will have you choose between a Winchester over & under or semi-automatic and will share with you all safety features of that firearm before your day begins

The Gun Owners Care initiative is focused on educating the public about the care gun owners have for their neighbors and communities. Because you not only care about safety and preventing unauthorized access to firearms but also bettering your community, helping those in need, and conserving wildlife and wild places for generations to come.

As a gun owner, you're encouraged to share stories of how you're making a difference by using the hashtag #GunOwnersCare. You can learn more at gunownerscare.org.