Safely Storing Firearms

According to a 2019 Gallup poll, 43% of Americans live in a household that has guns. Whether you agree with gun ownership or would prefer to stay as far away from them as possible, we can all agree that safety measures should be followed in every gun-owning household.

Here are three simple ways to keep your firearms safely stowed away.

1. Gun safe – this is the most secure gun storage option available. A proper gun safe should be made of heavy gauge steel and have a complex locking mechanism. These safes not only prevent your firearms from getting into the wrong hands, but they also offer protection against fire and water damage.
   Here are few tips for buying your first gun safe:
   • Size – when tallying your gun inventory be sure to include any ammunition and accessories that will also be in the safe to ensure you don’t run out of room. It may also be a good idea to buy the next size up to give your inventory (including jewelry and important paperwork) room to grow.
   • Fire rating – There aren’t any set standards for this type of rating but if the safe boasts keeping its contents safe for at least an hour above 1,200 degrees it’s a good choice.
   • Steel thickness – Remember that steel gauge sizes go in reverse, so the smaller number signifies a thicker steel. It’s also important to look for differences in steel thickness on the door, top, and sides of the safe.
2. Cabinets and cases – if you’re not in the market for a full safe, there are also locking gun cabinets and security cases. A locking steel cabinet is different from a safe in that the steel is a thinner gauge, they are not fire resistant, and generally have more simple locking mechanisms. While they don’t offer as much protection as a safe, they are a much more affordable option and provide adequate security. Security cases offer similar benefits with a lower cost and sufficient security.
3. Cable or Trigger Locks – these are provided with most new gun purchases as a simple way to prevent the gun from being loaded or fired without removing the lock.

Regardless of how many safety measures you take in your home you should always educate any children that will be in your home. Remind them that guns are not toys and to never touch a gun without the supervision of an adult.