What are the rifle safety rules on the range and in the stadium?
Rule- Canada
- Biathlon Canada
- Youth biathlon
- Canada Winter Games
- Ages 15-18
- 2026-27
- Athletes
The 2027 Canada Winter Games apply the IBU Event and Competition Rules (version 2026). Article 8.5 sets these safety rules:
- In and out of the stadium: a rifle must be in a case or cover bag when brought into or taken out of the stadium area, with a safety marker (coloured flag or lock) attached as a visible sign there is no cartridge in the chamber.
- Safety marker: it stays in every rifle, including reserve rifles, from entering the stadium until you reach the shooting range, where it may be removed for training or competing. You insert it again when leaving the range after training or zeroing, and at the finish as soon as possible (and in any case before leaving the finish exit area or returning to the rifle racks). For dry shooting it may be removed but must go back in straight after.
- Where you shoot: shooting is only permitted on the shooting range, during officially authorized times.
- Safe handling: rifle movements that might endanger others or yourself are forbidden, loaded or not. Carrying the rifle on your back, or having the bolt open, is considered safe.
- Muzzle direction: the muzzle must be over the forward edge of the shooting ramp (firing line) from the start to the end of the shooting bout. You may never deliberately point the muzzle at yourself or others while on the mat.
- Loading and unloading: after the start, you may only open the bolt or remove a magazine when stopped on the shooting mat, and only with the barrel pointing towards the targets or up. When moving from one lane to another, unload first and carry the rifle on your back in the harness.
- After shooting: rifles must be unloaded after each bout, with no round in the chamber or inserted magazine.
- Responsibility: you are responsible for the safety of your actions and your rifle at all times.
Source: IBU Event and Competition Rules 2026, article 8.5: https://assets.ctfassets.net/cz0vl36hcq0x/7mkQn1kQTB7VzlUZHAcuec/c8897efcf14ccded0f82af3513c6e5ef/ECR_Rules_2026_cap03.pdf
Added 25 Oct 2026