Safety is of First Importance
And is at the heart of everything we do!
TREAT ALL FIREARMS AS IF LOADED
NEVER POINT THE GUN AT ANYTHING YOU ARE NOT WILLING TO DESTROY
FINGERS OFF TRIGGERS UNTIL YOUR SIGHTS ARE ON TARGET
BE SURE OF YOUR TARGET AND WHAT IS BEYOND IT
We are all responsible for safety when we are shooting. It starts from your training as a probationary member, and continues through to the regular reviews the committee make of our safety procedures.
We continually strive to improve our implementation of the NRA Safe Shooting System
- Safe Person
- Safe Equipment
- Safe Practice
- Safe Place
Range Conducting Officers
Every shoot will have a Range Officer ("RO") conducting the shoot. The RO ensures the range procedures and range orders are adhered to. Normally, the ROs is easily spotted as they wear high visibility vest (or hat).
Our ROs are fully trained.
RO Instructions MUST be followed!
The RO will typically ( especially at our Home range ):-
- Run the range details
- Warn the range is about to go live - "Eyes and Ears"
- Give clearance to shoot
- Maintain a safety overwatch during shooting
- Warn when the detail is close to finishing
- Close the detail
- Clear all firearms used in the detail
- Allow the targets to be changed
- Deal with any malfunctions or stoppages
Range Orders
Every range has its own range orders. These specify everything about what can be done on the range. These will tell you maximum calibres, maximum muzzle velocity etc.
The range rules will be prominently displayed at the range; It is incumbent on every shooter to read and familiarise themselves with the range orders for the range they are shooting on.
Range order for our Home range are available to download here
Regular Review
Our safety procedures are under constant review, with regular safety bulletins promulgated to members. Ensuring Safe Practice Click here for an example "Flag it then Bag it:
This also is the case for constant range maintenance. Maintaining our range ensures it is a Safe Place
Being safe is always worthwhile
You, The Shooter
A very important part of the Safe Shooting System is the Safe Person. Every member is responsible for safety. When shooting, if anyone sees anything unsafe, then either shout "STOP!" or notify the RO, depending on the situation.
Safety training is given as part of probationary membership, so you will grow to be that Safe Person. You will practice with experienced shooters and learn good practice from the beginning.
You will ensure your equipment is serviceable and will have sufficient rifle slips and breech flags. You will ensure your ammunition is correct and within the range rules.
In short, the shooter is an important part of the safe shooting system. Ensure you are upto date with current procedures and good practice. If unsure of any aspect, please ask. Indeed, it is your duty to ask!