Shooting at a gun range can be a thrilling experience, but it involves some inherent risks that should never be taken lightly. If you’re not careful, you could seriously harm yourself or others. That’s why it’s essential to prioritize safety every time you’re handling a firearm. One of the most important aspects of gun range safety is protecting your eyes and ears. In this article, we’ll explain why eye and ear protection are crucial and how you can choose the right gear to keep yourself safe.
Vulnerability of Eyes and Ears
Your eyes and ears are incredibly important senses that help you navigate the world around you. Sadly, they are also some of the most vulnerable body parts when you’re around firearms. When you pull the trigger, guns can produce a loud noise and intense muzzle flash and recoil that can all cause damage to unprotected eyes and ears. The effects of these hazards aren’t always immediately apparent, and long-term exposure can lead to permanent hearing loss or vision damage. Even mild exposure can cause temporary tinnitus or ringing in the ears, which can be incredibly distressing.
Get Protective Gear
That’s where protective gear comes in. Earplugs or earmuffs can reduce the intensity of the sound waves, helping you muffle out harmful volume. Similarly, glasses or goggles can keep small pieces and particles from entering your eyes, and they also safeguard against the glare that can be produced by the explosion of a round. Make sure you’re using safety gear that is certified by the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA). This will ensure that you’re getting adequate protection.
Comfort is Key
Another important consideration is comfort. You can have the most protective gear in the world, but if it’s not comfortable to wear, you won’t use it. That’s why it’s important to try on your earplugs or earmuffs for a good fit. You’ll want to wear them for extended periods, so the gear should be snug but not too tight. The same is true for your glasses or goggles. Make sure they fit well and don’t pinch or slip. Consider using protective gear that fits over your prescription eyeglasses, or choose prescription safety glasses if you cannot wear contacts.
Maintain or Replace Your Eye/Ear Protection
If you’re bringing a guest to the shooting range, remember that they also need proper eye and ear protection. Always ask them if they have the right gear before you commence shooting and make sure you have enough gear available for their use. If your earplugs or earmuffs experience wear and tear from overuse, replace them immediately with new protective gear that meets safety standards. Similarly, if your glasses’ lenses are scratched or pitted, replace them for fresh, clear visibility.
Conclusion
In the end, protecting your eyes and ears when shooting at a gun range is a necessity. The risk is simply too great to take any chances with your safety or the safety of others. Make sure you’re wearing gear that is certified by OSHA to ensure proper protection, and always be aware of the environment around you when handling firearms. By respecting the inherent risks of gun range activities and prioritizing your safety, you’ll be able to enjoy the experience with total peace of mind.
