Which of the following is a critical safety practice on a shooting range?

Always keeping the firearm pointed downrange is a critical safety practice on a shooting range because it significantly reduces the risk of accidental injury or fatality. Firearms are designed to function in a way that they can discharge a projectile, and if the firearm is pointed toward areas where individuals are present, there is a high potential for catastrophic outcomes. By maintaining the firearm's muzzle pointed downrange, away from people and structures, shooters can ensure that any accidental discharge will not harm anyone and will only impact designated safe areas.

The emphasis on this practice is a fundamental rule in firearm safety protocols and serves as a primary safeguard in environments where live ammunition is used. Proper training and adherence to this rule are crucial for maintaining a safe and controlled shooting environment.