What to Do If You Fall While Carrying a Firearm

In the world of firearms ownership, one of the most important aspects isn’t just knowing how to fire a gun. It’s understanding what to do in risky situations, especially when you’re on the move. Falling while carrying a firearm is a scenario that might seem unlikely, but knowing the right actions to take can make all the difference. So, what should you do if you find yourself in this predicament?

First things first: don’t panic. Your first move should always be to check for any injuries. Are you okay? Did you just fall flat on your back in front of that cute dog you were trying to impress at the park? Once you've assessed your physical state, your focus should shift to your firearm. This is where safety becomes paramount.

Let’s break this down. Imagine this: you’ve fallen, and instinct kicks in. You know you should secure the gun, but here’s a bit of a twist—DO NOT try to catch the firearm as it falls or keep it pointed in a “safe” direction. That’s a no-go! Why? Because trying to control a falling firearm is a recipe for accidental discharge. Nobody wants that on their conscience, right?

Instead, the most important step is to safely unload the firearm. Now, you might be thinking, “Why unload it first? Shouldn’t I check for damage?” Well, not quite. Safety should always come before determining if your firearm has any dings. You need to ensure there are absolutely no live rounds ready to go off, especially if something unexpected happened during the fall.

Once you’ve unloaded the firearm, that’s when you can take a moment to check for obstructions. Maybe a twig got wedged in there, or the mechanism was affected by the impact. It’s all about keeping yourself and others safe first, and addressing the condition of your equipment second. How reassuring is it to know that when you act first, you’re prioritizing safety over everything else?

Now, while we’re on this topic, it’s vital to remember that these principles apply not only to individual owners but also to everyone involved in shooting sports and training. Whether you’re at a range or just handling your firearms at home, having a solid response plan is essential.

To wrap this all up, the next time you find yourself carrying a firearm and you trip or fall, remember: check yourself first, unload that gun without hesitation, and then inspect it for obstructions. It’s that simple—a blend of caution and care can prevent a potentially dangerous scenario from spiraling out of control.

Being prepared not only increases your proficiency but also builds confidence that can carry you through mishaps. So, whether you're preparing for your New York Firearms Safety Course or just looking to sharpen your handling techniques, keep these tips in mind. Safety is always the best path!