What is the FIRST action you should take before crossing a fence or obstacle while carrying a firearm?

The first action you should take before crossing a fence or any obstacle while carrying a firearm is to unload the firearm. This is crucial for safety; handling a loaded firearm can lead to accidental discharges, which can result in serious injury or death. Unloading the firearm ensures that it cannot be fired accidentally while navigating the obstacle.

Although checking for obstacles on the other side and inspecting the surroundings are important safety considerations, they should only be done after ensuring the firearm is unloaded. Additionally, while asking for assistance may be helpful in certain situations, it is not a primary action that addresses immediate personal safety regarding firearm handling. Ensuring the firearm is safe to carry should always be the top priority.