1. Learn the mechanical and handling characteristics of the firearm you are using.  Not all firearms are the same. The method of carrying and handling firearms varies in accordance with the mechanical provisions for avoiding accidental discharge and the various proper procedures for loading and unloading.  No person should handle any firearm without first having thoroughly familiarized their self with the particular type of firearm he is using, and with safe gun handling in general.  

2. Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction.
Be sure of the bullet stop behind your target, even when dry-firing. Never let the muzzle of a firearm point at any part of your body or at another person.  This is particularly important when loading or unloading a firearm.   In the event of an accidental discharge, no injury can occur as long as the muzzle is pointing in a safe direction.

3. Firearms should be unloaded when not in use.
Firearms should be loaded only when you are in the field or on the target range or shooting area, ready to shoot.  Firearms and ammunition should be securely locked in racks or cabinets when not in use.   Ammunition should safely be stored separate from firearms.  Store your firearms out of sight of visitors and children.  It is the gun owners responsibility to be certain that children and persons unfamiliar with firearms cannot gain access to firearms or ammunition.

4. Be sure the barrel is clear of obstructions.
Even a bit of  mud, snow or excess lubricating oil or grease in the bore may cause the barrel to bulge, or even burst on firing and can cause injury to the shooter.  Be sure that you are using the ammunition of the proper caliber and loading for the gun you are using.  If the report or recoil on firing seems weak, or doesn't seem quite right cease firing immediately and check to be sure that no obstruction has become lodged in the barrel.  Never try to shoot it out!!!.  

5. Be sure of your target before you shoot.
Don't shoot unless you know exactly where your bullet is going to strike.  Be sure of the bullet stop behind your target, even when dry-firing with an unloaded gun.  If you are in the field hunting, do not fire at a movement or a noise.  Take the time to be absolutely cretin of your target before you pull the trigger.

6. Wear shooting glasses and hearing protectors when you shoot.
All shooters should wear protective shooting glasses and some form of hearing protectors when shooting noise can damage hearing.

7. Never climb a tree or fence with a loaded firearm.
Put the firearm down carefully before climbing a fince and unload it before climbing or descending a tree or jumping over a ditch or other obstruction.  Never pull or push a loaded firearm toward yourself or another person.

8. Don't shoot at a hard surface, or at water.
Bullets can glance off many surfaces like rocks or the surface of water and travel in unpredictable directions with considerable velocity.

9. Never transport a loaded firearm.
Firearms should always be unloaded before being placed in a vehicle.   A suitable caring case or scabbard should be used to carry an unloaded firearm to and from the shooting area.

10. Avoid alcoholic beverages when shooting.
Don't drink until the day's shooting is over.   Handling firearms while under the influence of alcohol in any form constitutes a criminal disregard for the safety of others.  Also do not handle or use firearms while taking any drugs or medication which may impair your ability to act safely.