What safety procedure should be performed before handling any firearm?

Always treating every weapon as if it is loaded is a fundamental safety procedure in firearm handling. This principle is established to instill a mindset of caution and respect for firearms, regardless of their apparent condition. By maintaining this mindset, an individual is less likely to engage in unsafe practices, such as careless handling or assuming that a firearm is empty without verifying it.

The procedure emphasizes the importance of thorough checks and balances whenever a firearm is being handled. This includes ensuring that any firearm is pointed in a safe direction, finger off the trigger until ready to fire, and confirming that it is unloaded before any further handling takes place. This measure serves as a primary defense against accidental discharges and enhances overall safety in environments where firearms are present.

While other choices pertain to specific safety practices, such as wearing safety goggles or ensuring proper ventilation, they do not encapsulate the overarching principle of treating every firearm with the assumption it is loaded. Ultimately, this foundational approach to firearm safety is crucial in preventing accidents and maintaining a safe shooting environment.