New York Firearms Safety Course Practice Exam

How should firearms be stored at home?

1. Unloaded with the safety on

2. Loaded but in a locked cabinet

3. Unloaded and locked up with the ammunition stored separately

4. In a place accessible only to the owner

The correct answer is: Unloaded and locked up with the ammunition stored separately

Storing firearms at home is a critical aspect of firearm safety and responsibility. The preferred method of storage is to keep firearms unloaded and locked up, ideally in a safe or secure cabinet. This approach minimizes the risk of accidental discharge and unauthorized access, particularly by children or other individuals who should not have access to firearms. By also storing ammunition separately, you further enhance safety measures. This ensures that even if someone accesses the firearm, they would be unable to operate it since the necessary ammunition is secured elsewhere. This method aligns with best practices for firearm safety, emphasizing that firearms should not only be secured but also rendered inoperable until they are needed for lawful and safe use. Other practices, such as keeping a loaded firearm in a locked cabinet or accessible to the owner only, do not provide the same level of security and could potentially lead to dangerous situations if unauthorized individuals gain access or if the firearm is mistakenly handled.