Which of the following is considered safe handling at the range?

The practice of never pointing firearms in the direction of people is a fundamental safety rule in firearms handling, especially at the range. This principle is grounded in the basic tenet of firearm safety, which emphasizes that all firearms should always be treated as if they are loaded. By ensuring that firearms are never directed towards people, the risk of accidental injury is significantly minimized. This approach fosters a safe environment for everyone present, reinforcing the importance of awareness and control when handling firearms.

In contrast, the other options present practices that violate essential safety protocols. Loading firearms before entering the range can lead to unintentional discharges, and adjusting sights while others are shooting increases the chance of a mishap as it distracts from maintaining a vigilant awareness of safety. Lastly, using firearms without checking their load status disregards the critical safety measure of confirming whether a firearm is loaded or unloaded, which is crucial for preventing accidents.