Gun Safety at Home

Proper gun safety is an important part of home defense.

Home defense is more than just getting a handgun and knowing how to use it--you also need to be aware of the steps needed for proper gun safety at home. Firearm-related injuries in the home can be prevented by following a few rules when it comes to any type of gun in your home.

Loaded Guns

There are guns in 34 percent of homes in the United States, according to the National Rifle Association. Many of the injuries that happen with guns in the home are due to the fact that the guns are left loaded. Guns should be kept unloaded in the house, and every time the gun is handled, it should be checked to ensure that there is no ammunition loaded. This will cut down on the largest cause of injuries and death. Regardless of whether the gun is loaded or not, don't point it at anyone.

Gun Storage for Handguns

Handguns should be stored in a locked case, small safe or gun safe. Handguns can fit in almost all small safes, so if you already have one in the home you can put your guns right in there. Store the unloaded guns in an uncocked position, and make sure that all safeties are on.

Gun Storage for Rifles and Shotguns

Rifles and shotguns are more difficult to store and will most likely necessitate the need for a gun safe. Many people will store long-barrel guns in a closet or basement, but this is not a secure method of storage. If you do not have the option to put a gun safe in your home, you can buy trigger locks for each rifle and shotgun. These should also be stored unloaded.

Ammunition Storage

Ammunition should not be stored in the same place that the guns are. Ammunition can fit in smaller safes or locked cases. Locked drawers and cabinets are also prime locations for ammunition. Keeping your ammo safely out of the way means that curious visitors and children are not going to be able to load the guns, preventing any problems.

Using a Gun in the Home

In the event of an intruder in your home, these home safety tips will keep your family safe. The best ammunition for handguns are hollow points, as their stopping power is much higher than other types of ammunition and they do not exit the body. The recommendation for shotguns shells would be buckshot. Rifles can use hollow points like the handguns or plastic-tipped bullets.

Aiming in this situation is essential, as well as making sure that everyone in the household knows to get down and stay out of the way from you and the intruder. Focus on stopping the intruder and then call the police as soon as possible.

References

• Chuck Hawks: Ammunition for Self-Defense Firearm
• Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources: Firearm Safety in Your Home