As a gun owner, you have a responsibility to ensure your guns are stored safely and securely. Not only do you need to be cautious when carrying them, but you also need to be responsible when storing them. 

There are a number of different ways to do this, and the best option may vary depending on the type of gun, the number of guns and the layout of the home. Read on for reminders of how to safely store guns in your residence. 

STORE OUT OF REACH

A cable lock secures a .40 caliber pistol from having the magazine inserted and keeping the slide from fully closing.

One of the most important things to do when storing guns in your home is to make sure that they are out of reach of children. Children are curious by nature and if they see a gun, they may be tempted to play with it. This could lead to serious injury or death — both which could be prevented. If you have small children in your home, it’s best to keep your guns in a locked cabinet or safe; this will ensure only adults can gain access to the guns.

Gun safes provide the highest level of security, as they are designed to be resistant to fire and break-ins. Gun cabinets are also fairly secure, but they may be more accessible to children or visitors to the home. 

Gun locks can be used on any type of gun, rendering the gun inoperable until the lock is removed. This and can be an effective way to prevent accidents. Gun locks come in a variety of different styles, so you can choose one that best suits your needs.

FIND A DRY LOCATION

Another important thing to consider when storing guns in your home is keeping them away from moisture. Moisture can damage guns and make them less effective. If you live in an area with high humidity, it’s especially important to keep your guns in a dry place. One way to do this is to store them in a gun safe that has a dehumidifier. This will help to keep the guns dry and prevent rusting.

DETER STICKY FINGERS

Finally, you need to make sure that your guns are stored in a place where they cannot be easily stolen. If you store your guns in a place that is easily accessible to criminals, they may be stolen and used in a crime. It’s important to store your guns in a safe or cabinet that is difficult to break into. You should also consider investing in a gun safe that has an alarm system; this additional deterrent can help to thwart thieves and keep your guns secure.

STORE GUNS AND AMMUNITION SEPARATELY

One of the best ways to ensure gun safety is to store gun and ammunition separately. This simple measure can help to prevent accidents, as it removes the temptation to handle a gun without supervision or to play with ammunition. 

Additionally, storing gun and ammunition separately can help to deter theft and reduce the risk that a gun will fall into the wrong hands. Gun safes are a great way to store guns and ammunition separately and prevent unauthorized access. 

By following these tips, you can ensure your guns are properly stored in your home, helping to keep you and your family safe. Remember, guns are a big responsibility and should be treated as such. 

If you have any questions about gun safety or storage, please contact AimHi Family Firearms Center or your local law enforcement agency.