What is the purpose of a cease-fire command on a range?

• A. To begin a new drill.
• B. To halt all activity immediately for safety or to address a safety concern.
• C. To re-rack ammunition.
• D. To take a break.

Answer: (B)

A cease-fire is an urgent safety command that stops all firing and range activity immediately so everyone can address a potential danger. When something unsafe is observed—like a firearm issue, an injury, or a downrange situation—the range safety officer or leader uses this command to pause all actions, keep firearms under control, and wait for instructions. It’s about preventing accidents and ensuring everyone’s safety, not about starting a drill, re-racking rounds, or taking a normal break. Once the issue is resolved, the range can be brought back to active status according to the proper procedures.