What action is essential for RSOs before the range opens?

Inspecting the range for safety hazards is an essential action for Range Safety Officers (RSOs) before the range opens. This step is crucial to ensure that the environment is safe for all participants. By identifying and addressing any potential hazards such as debris, unsafe conditions, or equipment malfunctions, RSOs can significantly reduce the risk of accidents or injuries during shooting activities. Safety inspections help establish a controlled environment where shooters can focus on their tasks without the threat of unforeseen dangers.

Other actions, while important in their own right, do not play the same critical role in directly safeguarding the safety of the range. Setting up a snack bar or ensuring shooters have paid, while helpful for the functioning of the range, does not impact immediate safety. Completing paperwork, although necessary for operational records or compliance, cannot replace the fundamental need to verify that the range is in a safe and secure condition for all participants.