What should you always assume about a firearm?

Always assuming that a firearm is loaded until it has been verified otherwise is a fundamental principle of firearm safety. This mindset helps maintain a safe environment and encourages a cautious approach when handling firearms. It serves to remind individuals that any moment of negligence or oversight can lead to severe injuries or fatalities.

By treating every firearm as though it is loaded, you are more likely to handle it with the necessary care and attention required. This principle underpins numerous safety practices, such as keeping the muzzle pointed in a safe direction and keeping your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot. This assumption helps to prevent complacency, reinforcing the idea that firearms should always be respected and treated with caution, regardless of the context in which they are found or the experience level of the handler.