Be absolutely sure you have identified your target beyond any doubt. Equally important, be aware of the area beyond your target. This means observing your prospective area of fire before you shoot. Never fire in a direction in which there are people or any other potential for mishap. Wear eye and ear protection as appropriate.
Guns are loud and the noise can cause hearing damage.
They can also emit debris and hot gas that could cause eye injury. For these reasons, shooting glasses and hearing protectors should be worn by shooters and spectators. Alcohol, as well as any other substance likely to impair normal mental or physical bodily functions, must not be used before or while handling or shooting guns. Know the laws regarding ownership and use of a firearm. Most states impose some form of legal duty on adults to take reasonable steps to deny access by children to dangerous substances or instruments.