Gun storage is an important part of firearm ownership. There are specific rules set out by the federal Firearms Act and parts of the Criminal Code of Canada. They are in place to keep people safe, and to prevent firearm access to children, minors or unauthorized adults.

At outlined on the Royal Canadian Mounted Police website, there are a few key tips to remember for proper storage safety, relating to both non-restricted, and restricted firearms.

Does It Matter What Type Of Firearm I Own?

No, all firearms must adhere to the provisions set out in federal legislation. The only differences are between the classes of firearms. Generally speaking, most ordinary firearms, such as rifles and shotguns, fall into the “non-restricted” category. The other two categories are “restricted”, and “restricted and prohibited”. More information on what types of firearms fall into these categories can be found on the RCMP website.

The Storage Rules

The most important gun storage requirement is to make sure that you have a proper locking mechanism for the gun. This can be either a cable, a trigger lock, or removing the bolt if possible. The idea is that someone who happens to find or locate the firearm should not be able to fire it. Only the authorized owner should be able to unlock and fire the device.

Other rules can be found on the RCMP site, including how to store different classes of firearms – such as the use of vaults and lockers. The site also has options for how owners can display certain firearms in their home if they wish to do so.

If you have been charged or accused of improper storage, it’s important that you contact a legal professional. He or she will be able to assess whether your storage methods are compliant with current legislation.