Course marking: The course must be so clearly marked that competitors are at no time in doubt as to how to follow it, and each loop length has its own colour (Rule 3.3.6, Rule 3.3.6.1).; Temperature limits: Competitions must not be started if the air temperature is colder than −20°C (−4°F) at the...
Source: Rule 3.3.6, Rule 3.3.6.1, Rule 6.6.1, Rule 6.6.2 — IBU Event and Competition Rules — Biathlon
Why people argue about this
People often assume that keeping their rifle barrels pointed up is just a safety precaution against accidental discharges, but they misunderstand the full scope of what it means in Biathlon - specifically, how it applies to transitions where athletes need to move quickly between uphill and downhill sections without dropping their rifles, which could be dangerous if not handled properly.