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I grew up in the country around guns and always thought I knew all about safety. What I really knew was how to shoot the guns I owned. Being a suburbanite now, I have to do most of my shooting at a range. The very first time I ever visited an indoor range, I was taking pistols from my bag and laying them on the bench. One of my pistols was facing backwards from the bench. The range officer politely reminded me that the muzzle needs to go downrange AT ALL TIMES. My reply was "it's not loaded..." to which I immediately added "...but it doesn't matter" I apologized and was thankful he didn't kick me out.

Ever since I've been extremely mindful of myself and others while at the range. I've also noticed the nervousness of some range officers when they realize that someone brought a bunch of friends along to "show 'em all how to shoot". When I bring friends to shoot I always give them a briefing on what to do and how to act at the range. At first they think I'm crazy with all the rules, but they quickly get it. It's also a good reminder for me.