It is safe to shoot an arrow when the target is:

Choosing to shoot an arrow when the target is in front of a safe backstop is the safest option because a backstop is designed to catch or stop any projectiles that miss the target. This greatly reduces the risk of injury or property damage that could occur if an arrow were to stray off course. A safe backstop could be made of materials like bales of hay or earth mounds, which can effectively absorb the arrow's impact.

In contrast, other environments such as an open field, behind a tree, or on a hill can pose significant risks. An open field may have unrestricted horizons where an arrow could travel far and potentially injure someone or cause damage. Shooting from behind a tree may obstruct the view of the target and the area around it, making it hard to ensure that no one is in the path of the arrow. Similarly, shooting on a hill could lead to errant shots traveling further down the slope, increasing the danger of an accidental injury. Therefore, ensuring that there is a safe backstop is crucial for safe archery practices.