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If you have additional questions regarding Firearms laws, contact the California Department of Justice at (916) 227-7527

Safety and Storage Devices

If you decide to keep a firearm in your home you must consider the issue of how to store the firearm in a safe and secure manner. California recognizes the importance of safe storage by requiring that all firearms sold in California be accompanied by a DOJ-approved firearms safety device or proof that the purchaser owns a gun safe that meets regulatory standards established by the Department. The current list of DOJ-approved firearms safety devices and the gun safe standards can be viewed at the DOJ website.

There are a variety of safety and storage devices currently available to the public in a wide range of prices. Some devices are locking mechanisms designed to keep the firearm from being loaded or fired, but don't prevent the firearm from being handled or stolen. There are also locking storage containers that hold the firearm out of sight. For maximum safety, you should use both a firearm safety device and a locking storage container to store your unloaded firearm.

Two of the most common locking mechanisms are trigger locks and cable locks. Trigger locks are typically two-piece devices that fit around the trigger and trigger guard to prevent access to the trigger. One side has a post that fits into a hole in the other side. They are locked by a key or combination locking mechanism. Cable locks typically work by looping a strong steel cable through the action of the firearm to block the firearm's operation and prevent accidental firing. However, neither trigger locks nor cable locks are designed to prevent access to the firearm.

Smaller lockboxes and larger gun safes are two of the most common types of locking storage containers. One advantage of lock boxes and gun safes is that they are designed to completely prevent unintended handling and removal of a firearm. Lockboxes are generally constructed of sturdy, high-grade metal opened by either a key or combination lock. Gun safes are quite heavy, usually weighing at least 50 pounds. While gun safes are typically the most expensive firearm storage devices, they are generally more reliable and secure.

Remember: Safety and storage devices are only as secure as the precautions you take to protect the key or combination to the lock.

METHODS OF CHILDPROOFING YOUR FIREARM, FROM DOJ WEBSITE

As a responsible handgun owner, you must recognize the need and be aware of the methods of childproofing your handgun, whether or not you have children.

Whenever children could be around, whether your own or a friend's, relative's or neighbors, additional safety steps should be taken when storing firearms and ammunition in your home.

Always store your firearm unloaded.
Use a firearms safety device AND store the firearm in a locked container.
Store the ammunition separately in a locked container.

Always storing your firearm securely is the best method of childproofing your firearm; however, your choice of a storage place can add another element of safety. Carefully choose the storage place in your home especially if children may be around.

Do not store your firearm where it is visible.
Do not store your firearm in a bedside table, under your mattress or pillow, or on a closet shelf.
Do not store your firearm among your valuables (such as jewelry or cameras) unless it is locked in a secure container.
Consider storing firearms not possessed for self-defense in a safe and secure manner away from the home.