Our worst nightmare is a fun hunting trip turned into a life-changing disaster. You may not want to think about the potential consequences of improper gun handling, but it’s essential that you understand the power every gun has. Keep reading to learn our top three gun safety tips hunters need to know so you can keep yourself and your hunting friends safe.

Treat Every Gun Like It’s Loaded

Even though it may sound silly, you should treat every gun as if it has the ability to load itself. You may be absolutely positive that you remembered to unload your firearm after your last hunting trip—in fact, you may be able to see that the bullets aren’t in the gun. No matter the case, always act as though your gun is loaded. A single round left in the chamber by accident can be deadly.

Know Your Target and Beyond

Never fire your weapon based on a flash of movement or a loud noise. This sort of hunting is sure to get someone hurt—who knows when that flash of movement will be your buddy walking through the trees to relieve themselves?

Keep this tip in mind when you go hunting for hogs. They may move quickly, but wait to fire your weapon until you have a clearly identified target and a safe background. For more hog hunting tips, read this helpful guide to bagging pigs.

Never Point at Something You Don’t Want To Shoot

There is never an instance where you should jokingly point a firearm at anything you don’t want to shoot. Horseplay of any type is unacceptable and dangerous with a gun—treat your firearms with the respect they deserve.

Hopefully, you were already familiar with these top three gun safety tips hunters need to know—if you were, consider this a reminder to keep following these essential safety measures. If not, never forget these suggestions, because they could save a life.