Assistant Commissioner of Police Paul Robinson

The following tips on gun safety were prepared by Assistant Commissioner of Police Paul Robinson of the Firearms Safety and Training Unit:

1. Conduct yourself in a mature and responsible manner. This is the first rule one must follow when handling firearms. This is necessary in order to effectively practise other safety rules.

2. A firearm is not something one should show off. It may get out of hand and have dire consequences.

3. Never consume anything that will impair your judgement or physical condition when carrying or using a firearm.

4. Never assume a firearm is empty. It is better to put yourself on guard at all times by treating it as loaded.

5. Never point a firearm at anyone or anything unless you intend to use it. Remember that once the gun has been fired, you alone are responsible for whatever happens.

6. Try to become aware of what is going on around you. We often become so familiar with the things and routines in our daily lives that we become complacent. We become lost in our own world and if danger strikes, more often than not we are caught off-guard. Stay alert.

7. Never unnecessarily draw or display your firearm in public. Remember that if you do, you render yourself a potential target.

8. Never get yourself locked into a false sense of security because you are in possession of a firearm. Try to defuse a situation, watch for signs of escalating aggression and remember that it may be best if you discreetly leave a scene and seek relevant assistance.

9. Always make sure that firearms in your home are securely stored out of reach of children or other unauthorised persons.