Treat it like it's loaded

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Samuel Taylor
  • 436th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  Whether they are used for hobby, home-defense or hunting, firearms have many uses in the lives of Americans today. However, owning and storing a firearm in the home has its risks.

According to the Centers for Disease Control fatal and non-fatal injury database, more than 16,000 people were injured and more than 640 were killed in 2004 due to firearm-related accidents.

Though Delaware has consistently remained at, or below, the national average of firearm deaths, Staff Sgt. Tim Streets, 436th Security Forces Squadron combat arms instructor at the Combat Arms Training and Maintenance facility, has guidance to keep Team Dover safe and out of trouble.

"My top tip for weapon safety is 'treat every weapon as if it is loaded'," said Sergeant Streets. "Never point weapons at anything you're not willing to shoot or injure."

By handling weapons with caution and storing them securely in the home, owners can reduce the risk of accidents, especially in households with children.

"Owners should store weapons in a locked gun case, preferably in places that children cannot get to," said Sergeant Streets. "There is no law requiring owners to keep stored weapons unloaded, but it's safer to store the weapon apart from its ammunition."

Airmen living in base housing must register their firearms with Pass and Registration in Building 331. Airmen living in the dormitories are not allowed to keep firearms in their dorms; they must secure their firearms in the base armory.

Carrying firearms on base is prohibited, unless when participating in scheduled weapons training, testing or inspection at the CATM facility. If weapons are brought on base for those purposes, Airmen must inform the gate guards of their firearms and keep them unloaded.

"If Airmen are ever unsure about safety, procedures or how to handle their weapons, they should call us immediately," said Sergeant Streets. "We can inspect weapons, instruct owner on how to use them, and give them tips to stay safe."

To legally possess a firearm, owners must apply for a concealed weapon permit online, get fingerprints taken, and list their name in the local newspaper.

Though every American is granted the right to bear arms, those with criminal records or histories of mental instability may be denied the ability to own a firearm.

"I believe every American should exercise their constitutional rights," said Sergeant Streets. "But they should do so responsibly."