Proper Handgun Storage
By Lane Pearce at Smith & Wesson

It is as important to properly store your firearms when they're not in use as is to properly handle them when they are. Proper storage prevents access to guns by children or other unauthorized persons and avoids firearms theft.

Children are naturally curious, and also like to "play act" roles they learn from TV and other kids. The most effective way to overcome curiosity is to satisfy it. When a child asks about or shows interest, immediately and patiently respond sternly saying "Don't touch my guns!" to a child's expressed interest in firearms will almost surely lead to their finding out for themselves later with potentially fatal results.

Teaching your child that he or she may handle firearms only when you are present is one of the most import lessons they can learn.

When other kids come into the home, having a child who knows to leave guns alone unless they're with a responsible adult can defuse a potentially catastrophic situation. The NRA's "Eddie Eagle" program is geared to teach children, upon encountering a gun, to immediately tell an adult, without touching the gun.

Securely storing your guns and ammunition when not in use is mandatory. Installing a trigger lock and storing guns in a locked cabinet will help preclude unauthorized access. Keep the keys/combination away from children. If a critical part of the gun is removed and stored separately, it is more secure.

Those with several guns should seriously consider a safe. Many companies offer models with combination locks, interlocking bolts, and optional fireproofing. Most are configured to store both long arms and handguns. Safes will stop the amateur burglar or kids, but not the professional burglar.

Gun safety should never be thought of casually; It must be a mindset that both consciously and subconsciously directs our behavior when ever we use, carry or store a firearm. Safe handling and securely storing firearms are so important that the discussion bears repeating.