Whether you want to relieve some stress or are working on your accuracy, there’s nothing quite like heading to the shooting range. Because you will be there with others, it’s essential that you follow some rules to keep everyone safe.

Shooting Range Safety Guide

1. Cease-Fires

If you hear anyone call a cease-fire, stop shooting immediately. Remove the magazines and keep the actions open, then place your weapons down. Never think that you can fire off one more shot after you hear a cease-fire called.

2. Hot vs. Cold Range

A cold range means it’s time to unload your firearms, open the actions, and lay them down on the shooting range. Once everyone has done so, you can go downrange to check your targets. You must keep your gun unloaded and cannot move guns to or from the firing line until the range is declared hot. At this point, only shooters are allowed at the firing line.

3. Wear Protection

Flying shells and loud noises are dangerous. Wear eye protection, such as goggles or protective glasses, anytime you are firing. Wear ear protection such as ear plugs or muffs at all times, even if you aren’t on the firing line.

4. Point Safe

Never point a weapon at another person, even if you know it is unloaded. The barrel should always be pointed either at the ground or downrange. Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to fire.

5. Stick to Your Target

You should only fire at the targets that are directly in front of you. Shooting at an angle or at a target on the ground may either hit other people’s targets or result in rounds escaping the range.

When you’re ready to work on your shooting, a great shooting range will provide all you need. Shooter’s Firearms & Indoor Range boasts a friendly staff and a full-service safe range in Columbia, IL. The 30-yard, 6-lane range is open for both handguns and long guns. They have pistol leagues for some friendly competition and CCW classes available to get your concealed carry permit. Learn more on their website, and call (618) 281-6393 with any questions.