What does the acronym T.A.B.S. stand for in firearm safety?

The acronym T.A.B.S. in firearm safety stands for Treat, Always be aware, Be sure of your target, and Secure. This phrase encapsulates essential principles of safe firearm handling and usage.

"Treat" emphasizes treating every firearm as if it is loaded, which fosters a mindset of caution and responsibility. "Always be aware" points to the importance of situational awareness when handling firearms, ensuring the user is conscious of their environment and potential hazards. "Be sure of your target" underlines the critical practice of positively identifying the intended target, as well as what lies beyond it, to avoid accidental harm. Lastly, "Secure" refers to the importance of securely storing firearms when not in use to prevent unauthorized access and accidents.

This comprehensive approach encapsulates the core aspects of firearm safety and underscores the need for vigilance and responsibility when handling firearms. Each component represents a fundamental mindset that significantly reduces the risk of firearm-related incidents.