Why are barricades and guards used at range safety zones?

Barricades and guards are primarily used at range safety zones to prevent unauthorized access. This is critical in ensuring safety because shooting ranges are often dangerous environments where live ammunition is being fired. By restricting access to only authorized personnel, such as trained range officers and participants, the risk of accidents or injuries is significantly minimized. The presence of these safety measures helps to clearly delineate areas where shooting is taking place from those that are off-limits, thereby protecting both the public and personnel involved in the activities at the range.

The other options suggest uses that are not aligned with the primary function of barricades and guards in a shooting range context. Creating a comfortable viewing area or marking hiking trails does not contribute to the safety of individuals near a shooting range. Similarly, while facilitating emergency services is important, it is secondary to the main function of preventing unauthorized access, which is the first line of defense in maintaining safety at the range.