So you own a gun --- or several guns, and you believe in the "right" to keep and bear arms. Do you stand up for the right, calmly but with conviction, even when it is uncomfortable to do so? Do you demand the same from your political leaders at every level of government? Do you serve as a role model every time you handle a firearm?

That last question is not on the usual list. It never appears on the solicitations for money. Yet, those who are ignorant about guns and those who hate them will sieze upon any mistake by any gun owner as an example of why guns need to be "controlled". So how does a role model act with a gun?

First, treat all guns as though they are loaded! Every gun needs and deserves this basic element of respect. No excuses - no complaints - no exceptions. Treat all guns as though they are loaded. Do not pick up a gun until you are ready to handle it properly and safely, considering the design of the gun, your surroundings and the sensitivities of those around you.

Second, once you decide that you can safely pick up a firearm, always remember to keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction (or, as we teach in defensive shooting, never point the muzzle at anything that you do not have the legal and moral right to destroy). This second rule of safety is really an extension of the first rule. No one should ever point a gun at anything they do not have the right to shoot.

Third, keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot (okay, some people say until your sights are on the target - you get the point). This rule is also an extension of the first rule, but even experienced shooters have been known to violate this rule - oops, the gun "went off."

Fourth, be absolutely sure of your target and what is behind and around it. Remember, you are responsible for where your bullet impacts, and it does not hit the target and automatically stop there.

Fifth, take responsibility for and maintain control of your firearm(s). It doesn't matter whether you are wearing a gun in a holster or storing it at home in a safe. You are responsibile for your gun(s).