When handling firearms, always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. Common sense must be used in choosing the safest direction to point the muzzle. Firearm Education Safety in general is largely a matter of education and home firearms safety is certainly no exception. The head of the house must teach safe gun handling to all family members. Without proper education, preventive measures are nearly useless.
Children are never too young to begin the lessons of safety.
Teaching can begin long before the child is old enough to understand detailed instruction. Start by setting a proper and consistent example. If parents treat guns with care and respect, children will likely follow their lead. The second stage is more difficult, but well worth the effort. It involves convincing the child that firearms are not toys.