Security
The law does not define how firearms/shotguns should be stored but before any certificate is issued by the police the Chief Officer of police must be satisfied that any owner of a firearm or shotgun keeps the guns so that there is no danger to the public.
The reason for this being one of safety in that the guns if not secured properly, could fall into the hands of criminals or persons such as young children or inexperienced persons. In all cases where a gun falls into the wrong hands, the consequences could and have proved fatal.
It is also a condition on all firearm and shotgun certificates that each gun held must be kept secure. It is an offence not to do so which could result in a court appearance and also the revocation of your certificate should the conditions be breached in any way. Please note that, in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, firearms and shotguns must be stored with a certificate holder. There are various forms of security, some of which are mentioned below:
- Gun Cabinet - An ideal place in which to keep firearms/shotguns is in a lockable gun cabinet (BS7558 approved) which should be located in a protected part of the premises (i.e. not in a garage or outbuilding) out of sight of casual visitors and secured to the internal structure of the building
- Gun Clamps - Gun clamps are an effective way to store individual guns but unless the clamps are positioned in a particular way they provide little or no security for the gun. (Ask your supplier for installation details). From a security point of view the gun clamp should be used for one gun only in addition to other security and out of sight.
- Securicord - Again as with gun clamps, securicord is acceptable but only when used as an additional method of security. At all times the gun(s) should be out of sight of casual visitors.
- Gun Rooms - Many people prefer to keep their guns locked in a purpose built gun room. Before you construct a gun room it would be advisable to contact your local Crime Reduction Officer for advice.
- Alarm Systems - All forms of the above security can be further enhanced by the addition of an alarm system. Again you can contact your local Crime Reduction Officer for advice.
- Safety Whilst Travelling - Always try to transport a firearm/shotgun in its case or in a protective gun cover although the use of a cable security device may prohibit this. Bear in mind that a firearm and shotgun certificate carries a condition relating to the security of the gun in that whilst in transit reasonable precautions must be taken for the safe custody of the gun. The gun should be out of sight in the vehicle and the vehicle should always be properly locked when left unattended.
- Security of Ammunition - It is just as important to keep ammunition secure. With Section 1 ammunition, it is a condition of the Firearm Certificate to do so and it is a stipulation that such ammunition be stored separately from guns
Remember
Security is your responsibility you could lose your right to possess guns if you are negligent in securing guns and ammunition.
Security standards are very important and each case will be examined on its merits when consideration is given in respect of the application for a firearm or shotgun certificate.
Any keys to cabinets, guns rooms, etc., should also be stored discreetly to avoid easy access to your firearms/shotguns.
