Which option is NOT considered a firearm safety practice?

The option stating that firearms should be kept in the gun rack when in a vehicle is not considered a fundamental firearm safety practice in the same way as the other options. While securing firearms in a vehicle is important for transportation and legal compliance, it does not directly relate to the immediate safety measures that every hunter or firearm handler should follow at all times, such as treating every firearm as if it is loaded, directing the muzzle safely, and ensuring awareness of the target and what lies beyond it.

The first option emphasizes the critical principle of treating every firearm with respect, which is foundational to preventing accidents. The second option highlights the importance of keeping the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, a key practice that helps to avoid unintentional injuries. The third option focuses on confirming your target and what’s beyond it, an essential safety practice to ensure that no harm comes to people or property beyond the intended target. These concepts are vital for the overall safety of firearm handling, while the use of a gun rack, though practical for transportation, does not encompass the immediate handling safety protocols.