The first hour
- Know the basic firearm safety rules by heart: (1) treat every firearm as if it's loaded, (2) never point the muzzle at anything you don't intend to destroy, (3) keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire, (4) be sure of your target and what's beyond it.
- Keep firearms locked when not in your direct control, especially with kids in the home.
The first day
- Take a safety class from a certified instructor before or right after buying. Practice regularly at a range.
- Learn your state's laws on buying, carrying, transporting and storing firearms. These change, so check official state sources.
- Choose what fits your home and skill level. Talk to a qualified instructor or reputable shop about general options.
The first week and beyond
- Store firearms locked, unloaded, and separate from ammunition when kids may be around (AAP and Project ChildSafe guidance). Quick-access safes help balance safety and access.
- Ammunition: store in a cool, dry place away from heat, flame and solvents. Sealed ammo cans with desiccant packs protect from moisture. Keep locked away from children.
- How much ammo to keep is a personal choice. Check local fire codes and rules; some places limit amounts stored in homes.
- Clean and maintain firearms per the maker's manual.
The legal side
- Use-of-force and self-defense laws vary by state and still apply in any emergency. Read your state's laws and consider a class from a qualified local instructor or attorney-led seminar.
Non-lethal options
- Pepper spray: legal in all states but rules vary (canister size, age limits, where you can buy). Check your state.
- Personal and home alarms.
- Dogs: a barking dog is one of the best early warnings.
- Motion lights and cameras.
- Strong locks and door reinforcement to buy time.
Get ready now: checklist
Your checks save on this phone.
Common mistakes
- Storing a firearm unlocked where kids can reach it.
- Skipping training.
- Assuming laws are the same in every state when traveling.
- Storing ammo in hot garages or damp basements.
Keeping kids calm
- CDC and AAP: the safest home for kids has no firearm; if one is present, store it locked and unloaded with ammo locked separately.
- Teach kids: 'If you see a gun, don't touch it, leave the area, tell an adult.'
- Ask other families about safe storage before playdates.
Gear that helps
- Quick-access biometric or keypad safe: my pick, Fortress Medium Quick Access Safe (biometric)
- Cable locks or trigger locks: my pick, Master Lock 99DSPT cable gun lock (2-pack)
- Gun safe: my pick, Fortress Medium Quick Access Safe (biometric)
- Ammo cans with rubber seals: my pick, M2A1 50 cal steel ammo can (3-pack)
- Desiccant packs: my pick, Hydrosorbent 450 g rechargeable silica gel canister
- Cleaning kit: my pick, Real Avid Gun Boss Pro Universal
- Pepper spray (check state laws): my pick, SABRE RED police-strength pepper spray with key ring
- Personal safety alarm
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.