Some observations from a local range this weekend

[TropicalVibe]

I think one of the best things we can do is to teach from an early age. Every time I see the opportunity, where kids are running around with toy guns, I take the time to show them the basic NRA firearms safety rules.

That way they can get into the habit of behaving responsibly with firearms, and not pointing them at people unless it's an organized and safe activity agreed to by the participants.

Any time we are involved in a shooting activity, we should start with a safety briefing, read the range rules, and go over them carefully, rather than doing the guy thing where...we already know it all, can't be told.

This is great advice! I am often asked by friends and family to teach their kids how to shoot. I ALWAYS tell them that shooting DOES NOT happen until they can demonstrate safety. We start with toy guns, then work our way up to air soft and pellet guns. If there is ever a rule violation, we stop and review the 4 rules. I can't tell you how many times I have heard a kid say, "it's only a toy".

I have taught my kids that if you are at someones house and you see a gun laying around, immediately tell an adult. I teach every child and teen that come in my house, the same rule.