FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WPTA) – A local self-defense instructor says proper training and safe handling habits can make all the difference when it comes to preventing accidental shootings.
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First Shield Defense founder Kyle Rogers says many accidental discharges happen when someone unknowingly places their finger too close to the trigger or reacts suddenly to a distraction.
“What normally happens is subconsciously you don't realize that your finger is hovering over the trigger, even if it's not touching, and then all of a sudden maybe something scares you or, I don't know, you have a sympathetic response up for your trigger finger, and the firearm does go off if it is loaded,†Rogers said. “So, trigger discipline is very important. Don't point a live firearm at anybody else unless you feel as though you are in immediate fear of death or serious bodily injury.â€
Rogers says firearms owners should always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, keep their finger off the trigger until they're ready to fire, and store guns securely when not in use.
He says training with unloaded firearms and practicing safe habits can help reduce the risk of a preventable tragedy.
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