Firearm Safety and Safe Gun Storage

What is Safe Gun Storage?

More than half of all U.S. gun owners store firearms unlocked. Responsible gun ownership is not only about how, where, and when a person uses their firearm; it’s also about how they store it when not in use. 

Suicide: Far too often someone in crisis gains access to a family member’s firearm that is left unlocked. Suicide is a public health crisis and firearms are the most lethal suicide method. The gun suicide rate has steadily increased, nearly uninterrupted, since 2006. 

Theft: Hundreds of thousands of guns are stolen from homes and cars each year, helping to fuel high rates of gun violence across the country, disproportionately impacting communities of color.  

Unintentional shootings: Access to unsecured firearms increases the risk of unintentional injury and death by firearm. Children are often impacted by unintentional firearm injuries by gaining access to an unsecured firearm owned by a parent.  

Safely storing firearms can reduce gun injuries and deaths, and is supported by researchers, healthcare professionals, and gun owners alike. Research has demonstrated a decreased risk for suicide among adolescents when guns are stored safely. Safe and secure storage practices also help prevent guns from being stolen, diverted into illegal markets and used in gun crime. Gun owners have a responsibility to store their guns safely, wherever they may take them, to prevent these thefts. 

California State Law

California has strict laws regarding the storage of firearms to prevent unauthorized access and accidents. Here's a summary:

  • Safe Storage Required: Firearms must be stored in a locked container or equipped with a locking device to prevent unauthorized use or access by children or prohibited persons.
  • Crime to Store Loaded Firearms: It's a crime to store a loaded firearm where a child is likely to gain access to it without permission.
  • Responsibility for Child Access: Adults are criminally liable if they negligently store or leave a loaded firearm where a child is likely to gain access.
  • Secure Storage for Licensed Dealers: Firearms in the inventory of licensed firearms dealers must be stored in a locked container or with a locking device outside of business hours.
  • Handgun Safety Certificate: Buyers of handguns must have a Handgun Safety Certificate, which includes safe storage principles.
  • Transportation Requirements: Firearms must be transported unloaded and in a locked container, separate from ammunition.
  • Assault Weapon Storage: Assault weapons must be stored in a locked container or with a locking device, separate from ammunition.
  • Penalties: Violation of these laws can result in criminal penalties, including fines and imprisonment, depending on the circumstances.

Healdsburg Municipal Code

The Healdsburg Municipal Code section 9.16.060 places addistional restrictions on residents and visitors of Healdsburg pertinaing to the safe storage of fiarms.  All persons are required to keep a firearm within any residence in a locked container or disabled with a trigger lock, unless the firearm is carried upon the person or is otherwise in teh immediate control and possession of a person in accordiance with applicable local, state and federal law.

Additionally, any person who owns or posseses a firearm shall report the theft or loss of the firearm to the City of Healdsburg Police Department within 48 hours of the time teh persons suspected or new the firearm had been lost or stolen.

Firearm Safety

Gun safety is paramount to prevent accidents and ensure responsible firearm ownership. Here are some key tips:

  • Treat Every Firearm as if it's Loaded: Always assume a gun is loaded until you've verified otherwise.
  • Keep the Muzzle Pointed in a Safe Direction: Ensure the gun is pointed away from yourself and others at all times.
  • Keep Your Finger Off the Trigger Until Ready to Shoot: Only place your finger on the trigger when you're ready to fire.
  • Be Sure of Your Target and What's Beyond It: Know what you're shooting at and what lies beyond your target to avoid unintended injuries.
  • Store Firearms Securely: Use a locked cabinet, safe, or gun vault to prevent unauthorized access, especially by children or individuals prohibited from owning firearms.
  • Unload Firearms When Not in Use: When you're finished using a firearm, unload it immediately.
  • Store Ammunition Separately: Keep ammunition locked away separately from firearms.
  • Educate Yourself and Others: Take a gun safety course to learn the basics and educate your family members about firearm safety.
  • Use the Correct Ammunition: Use only the ammunition recommended by the firearm manufacturer.
  • Regular Maintenance: Keep your firearms clean and in good working condition to ensure safe operation.