What is the fourth safety rule of handling a weapon?

• A. Treat every weapon as if it were loaded
• B. Never point a weapon at anything you do not intend to shoot
• C. Keep your finger straight and off the trigger until you are ready to fire
• D. Keep the weapon on safe until you intend to fire

Answer: (D)

Keeping the weapon on safe until you intend to fire is about maintaining a safe mechanical state when you’re not actively firing. The safety, when engaged, helps prevent an unintended discharge by blocking the firing mechanism if the weapon is bumped, dropped, or handled roughly. This adds a layer of protection that complements the other rules: treating every weapon as loaded keeps you vigilant about potential danger; never pointing at anything you don’t intend to shoot enforces muzzle discipline; and keeping your finger off the trigger avoids accidental discharge while you are not in the act of firing. When you are ready to shoot, you switch the safety off and place your finger on the trigger only then. If a weapon lacks a manual safety, follow your unit’s procedures to ensure a safe condition during handling and transport.