Gun Safety in Your Home

If you live in or around Little Falls, MN, you may hunt or shoot recreationally. Firearms can be deadly if they are not handled and stored correctly, so use these tips from Hanneken Insurance Agency Inc. to avoid a tragedy when you have firearms in your home. 

• If you’ve never owned or handled a gun before, take a basic safety class before buying one. You can contact your county law enforcement to find out what is available in your area. These classes may cover the laws surrounding weapons, how to handle them safely, and your responsibilities as a gun-owner.
• All weapons should always be stored unloaded and locked up. Even if you don’t have children in your home, you never know who could enter your house when you’re not around. A suicidal relative or an intruder could use your weapon with a tragic result. Simple tools like trigger locks and gun safes can keep people safe.
• Alcohol and firearms do not mix. Never use a weapon when you have been drinking, nor should you allow anyone else access to your weapons while under the influence of alcohol or other types of mind-altering substances.
• Talk to your kids about your firearms. Rather than simply forbidding them to touch the guns, let them ask questions. This shouldn’t be a one-time conversation, but rather an ongoing dialog. If your child wants to learn about firearms, take them to a safe place to shoot, and be sure that they understand that the only time they should use a firearm is if you are around and have given your permission. Do not allow them to know the combination to your gun safe, and do not depend on their obedience to keep them safe. Kids can be impulsive, and you should still keep weapons locked up even if you think your child understands the risks.
• Learn to shoot safely, using eye and ear protection. Also, be aware of what is behind your target.

If you live in Little Falls, MN or the surrounding area and have questions about homeowner’s insurance, you can contact Hanneken Insurance Agency Inc.