Firearm safety training at Arrowhead Gun Club

Safety First

Safety

Safety is the foundation of everything we do. Learn our protocols and your responsibilities.

Foundation

The Four Universal Safety Rules

1

Treat Every Firearm as Loaded

Always assume a firearm is loaded until you have personally and visually confirmed otherwise. Never take anyone's word that a gun is unloaded — check it yourself every time.

2

Never Point at Anything You're Not Willing to Destroy

Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. Be conscious of where your firearm is pointing at all times — during handling, loading, unloading, and transporting.

3

Keep Your Finger Off the Trigger Until Ready to Shoot

Keep your trigger finger straight and outside the trigger guard until your sights are on target and you have made the conscious decision to fire.

4

Know Your Target and What Is Beyond It

Be absolutely certain of your target, its surroundings, and what lies beyond it. Never shoot at movement, sound, or unidentified targets.

Protocol

Range Etiquette

Before You Arrive

  • Ensure your membership is current and you have your membership card
  • Pack proper eye and ear protection for yourself and any guests
  • Bring factory-manufactured ammunition only — no reloads without prior approval
  • Ensure all firearms are transported unloaded in cases
  • Check the club calendar for any events that may affect range availability

At the Range

  • Check in at the clubhouse and sign the daily range log
  • Set up only at your assigned shooting station
  • Follow all Range Safety Officer commands without exception
  • Maintain a clean shooting station — pick up spent brass and trash
  • Be courteous and respectful to fellow shooters at all times

After Shooting

  • Make your firearm safe — unload, clear the chamber, and case it
  • Clean your shooting station thoroughly — leave it better than you found it
  • Dispose of spent brass in designated recycling containers
  • Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before eating or drinking
  • Report any range equipment issues to staff before leaving

Gear

Required Equipment

Eye Protection

ANSI Z87.1 rated safety glasses or shooting glasses required at all times on ranges. Prescription glasses alone are not sufficient.

Hearing Protection

Over-ear muffs or properly inserted ear plugs required. Electronic hearing protection recommended for instruction scenarios.

Closed-Toe Shoes

Sturdy closed-toe footwear required on all ranges. No sandals, flip-flops, or open shoes permitted.

Appropriate Clothing

No low-cut tops. Long sleeves recommended when shooting. Avoid loose clothing that could interfere with firearm operation.

Hat with Brim

Recommended for deflecting ejected brass and providing sun protection. Baseball cap or wide-brim hat both acceptable.

Be Prepared

Emergency Procedures

Medical Emergency

  1. 1
    Immediately call out "CEASE FIRE!" and make all firearms safe
  2. 2
    Call 911 and provide the club address and nature of the emergency
  3. 3
    Send someone to the main entrance to guide emergency responders
  4. 4
    Administer first aid if trained — first aid kits located at every range and in the clubhouse
  5. 5
    Do not move an injured person unless they are in immediate danger
Arrowhead Gun Club members gathering at sunset

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