If htis is your first gun, then I think you need some training. Both in handling as well as safety and shooting skills.
The NRA has training programs all over the place. This link will take you to their training page. The top left link will take you to their "find a local safety program" page. On that page you can find your State and browse through the classes that are offered in various places near you. I'd suggest "first pistol" as a good starting point.
http://www.nrahq.org/education/train...ictraining.asp