What should you always assume about a firearm you have just encountered?

When encountering a firearm, the best practice is to always assume that it might be loaded until proven otherwise. This principle is a fundamental safety rule in firearm handling and reflects a cautious approach that prioritizes safety. Firearms can be inadvertently left loaded, and assuming they are safe can result in serious accidents.

By starting from the perspective that a firearm might be loaded, individuals are more likely to engage in safe practices, such as keeping the firearm pointed in a safe direction and ensuring they do not put their finger on the trigger until they are ready to shoot. This awareness promotes a culture of safety and responsibility among firearm users, reducing the risk of mishaps.

Other perspectives, such as assuming a firearm is unloaded and safe to handle, could lead to dangerous situations if the firearm is not actually safe. The incorrect assumptions about recent usage and maintenance do not directly pertain to a safe handling protocol, as they do not guarantee the firearm's current status regarding its loaded condition. Thus, the correct understanding is to treat any firearm with an assumption of potential readiness to fire, ensuring all safety measures are taken.