Range Safety

Safety First

At Pinhoe Target Shooting Club, safety is paramount. We maintain the highest standards of range safety in accordance with NSRA (National Small-bore Rifle Association) guidelines. All members and visitors must follow our safety protocols at all times.

Fundamental Safety Rules

1. Treat Every Firearm as Loaded

Always assume every firearm is loaded and handle it accordingly, even when you know it’s unloaded. Never point a firearm at anything you don’t intend to shoot.

2. Muzzle Awareness

Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction at all times - downrange on the firing line, or upward/downward when moving around the range. Never sweep the muzzle across another person.

3. Finger Off the Trigger

Keep your finger off the trigger and outside the trigger guard until you are on target and ready to fire. This prevents accidental discharges.

4. Know Your Target and Beyond

Be absolutely certain of your target and what’s behind it before firing. Never fire at hard surfaces that could cause ricochets.

Range Protocols

Range Conducting Officer (RCO)

Every shooting session has a designated Range Conducting Officer who is responsible for:

• Overall range safety
• Issuing range commands
• Managing firing and cease-fire periods
• Handling any safety incidents or concerns
• Ensuring all shooters comply with safety rules

Firing Line Procedures

• Preparation: Firearms may only be handled at the firing point
• Loading: Load only when on the firing line and the range is declared “hot”
• Firing: Fire only when it is safe to do so and never during a cease-fire
• Cease-Fire: When “STOP” or “CEASE FIRE” is called, immediately stop shooting, remove ammunition, and make the firearm safe
• Leaving the Line: Never leave the firing line with a loaded firearm

Behind the Line

• Stay well behind the firing line when not shooting
• Do not distract shooters on the line
• Keep conversations quiet and respectful
• No handling of firearms behind the line

Equipment Safety

Firearm Condition

• All firearms must be in safe working condition
• Report any malfunctions immediately to the RCO
• Do not attempt to fix a malfunction yourself - seek help
• Club firearms are regularly inspected and maintained

Ammunition

• Use only appropriate ammunition for your firearm
• Check ammunition before use - no damaged rounds
• Store ammunition safely away from the firing line
• Dispose of misfires and damaged ammunition properly

Safety Equipment

• Eye Protection: Mandatory for all shooters and range staff
• Ear Protection: Strongly recommended, mandatory for some calibers
• Appropriate Clothing: No loose clothing that could interfere with shooting

Emergency Procedures

Range Emergency

In the event of any emergency on the range:

1. The RCO will shout “STOP” - immediately cease all activity
2. Make your firearm safe (unload, action open, pointing downrange)
3. Step back from the firing line
4. Wait for instructions from the RCO
5. Do not resume until given the all-clear

Medical Emergency

First aid kits are available on-site. In case of injury, notify the RCO immediately. For serious injuries, emergency services will be called.

Fire

Fire exits are clearly marked. In case of fire:

1. Make firearms safe immediately
2. Alert others
3. Evacuate via the nearest safe exit
4. Assemble at the designated meeting point
5. Do not re-enter the building

Visitor Safety

Our Safety Record

We are proud of our excellent safety record. This is maintained through:

• Strict adherence to NSRA guidelines
• Regular safety training for all members
• Comprehensive safety briefings for new shooters
• Well-maintained equipment and facilities
• Qualified Range Conducting Officers present at all sessions
• A culture where safety always comes first

Additional Resources

• Range Commands - Learn the standard commands used on our ranges
• Give it a Go - Our introductory programme includes full safety training
• Training - NSRA safety courses and qualifications available