Two Range Rules You Must Know

Understanding Range Rules

At Hidden Valley Range, safety is the cornerstone of our commitment to providing a world-class shooting experience. As a premier destination for shooting sports enthusiasts, we prioritize the well-being of our patrons, staff, and community. Two critical safety rules at Hidden Valley Range are strictly enforced:

1. No Walking or Driving Past the Zero Range Board

2. Absolutely No Painting of Targets

These rules are non-negotiable, designed to protect everyone on the premises and maintain the integrity of our facilities.

Understanding the Zero Range Board

The Zero Range board at Hidden Valley Range serves as a critical safety boundary. Positioned at a designated point on the north end of the range, it marks the safe zone where shooting activities are conducted and separates it from restricted areas downrange. The Zero Range board is a clear visual indicator, ensuring that all patrons know exactly where they must not enter any further into the shooting range.

Why No Walking or Driving Past the Zero Range Board?

Walking or driving past the Zero Range board poses significant safety risks for several reasons:

1. Active Firing Zone: The area beyond the Zero Range board is within the active firing zone, where live ammunition is in use. Entering this area during range operations could expose individuals to live fire, resulting in catastrophic consequences. Even during a ceasefire, unauthorized movement past the board increases the risk of accidents if the range is reactivated unexpectedly.

2. Controlled Access: The Zero Range board helps range safety officers (RSOs) maintain control over the range. By keeping all patrons behind this boundary, RSOs can monitor activities, ensure compliance with safety protocols, and respond quickly to any issues. Unauthorized movement disrupts this oversight and compromises safety.

3. Environmental and Terrain Hazards: The area beyond the Zero Range board may contain uneven terrain, debris, or other hazards not immediately visible. These conditions can lead to injuries, particularly if someone is walking or driving in an area not designed for such activity.

4. Vehicle Safety: Driving past the Zero Range board is especially dangerous, as vehicles can obstruct sightlines, create dust clouds that impair visibility, or inadvertently enter the line of fire. This rule applies to all vehicles, including personal vehicles, range equipment, or unauthorized off-road vehicles.

Patrons found violating this rule will face immediate removal from the range and immediate cancellation of membership to Hidden Valley Range to ensure compliance and protect everyone.

The Prohibition on Painting Targets

Another critical safety rule at Hidden Valley Range is the strict prohibition on painting targets. This rule applies to all types of targets, whether paper, steel, or other materials provided by the range or brought by patrons.

Why No Painting Targets?

Painting targets may seem harmless, but it introduces several risks that Hidden Valley Range seeks to mitigate:

1. Environmental Impact: Many paints contain chemicals that can harm the environment, particularly in outdoor ranges where runoff could contaminate soil or water sources. Hidden Valley Range is committed to environmental stewardship and adheres to strict regulations to minimize its ecological footprint.

2. Range Maintenance: Paint can damage or degrade range equipment, such as steel targets or target stands. Over time, paint buildup can obscure target surfaces, making them less effective or harder to see, which could lead to unsafe shooting conditions. Additionally, cleaning painted targets increases maintenance costs and diverts resources from other safety priorities.

3. Visibility and Safety: Unauthorized paint colors may reduce target visibility or create confusion, especially if they blend into the background or mimic other range features. Consistent target appearance, as provided by Hidden Valley Range, ensures that shooters can clearly identify their targets, reducing the risk of errant shots.

4. Health Concerns: Aerosol paints or spray cans can release harmful fumes, particularly in indoor ranges with limited ventilation. These fumes pose health risks to shooters, staff, and other patrons, especially in enclosed spaces. Even non-toxic paints can create slippery surfaces or debris, increasing the risk of accidents.

Patrons found violating this rule will face immediate removal from the range and immediate cancellation of membership to Hidden Valley Range to ensure compliance and protect everyone.

Why Compliance Matters

Adhering to these rules is not just about following regulations; it’s about protecting lives. The Zero Range board and no-painting policies are designed to prevent accidents, injuries, and environmental harm. By respecting these boundaries, patrons contribute to a safe and sustainable range environment where everyone can enjoy their time without fear.

A Shared Responsibility

Safety at Hidden Valley Range is a shared responsibility. While the range provides the infrastructure and oversight, patrons play a critical role by following rules and reporting concerns. The no walking or driving past the Zero Range board and no painting targets rules are foundational to this commitment. By working together, we ensure that Hidden Valley Range remains a safe, welcoming, and professional environment for all.

Conclusion

Hidden Valley Range is dedicated to providing a top-tier shooting experience while prioritizing safety above all else. The rules prohibiting movement past the Zero Range board and painting targets are critical to maintaining a secure and environmentally responsible facility. We urge all patrons to respect these policies, ask questions if unsure, and join us in fostering a culture of safety. Together, we can ensure that Hidden Valley Range remains a trusted destination for shooting sports enthusiasts.