Three Ways to Practice Responsible Firearm Ownership in Illinois

 Posted on November 12, 2018 in Uncategorized

Guns have been a hot topic in recent years in American politics. According to the Gun Violence Archive, which is a nonprofit organization that provides information about gun violence, there have been 256 mass shootings—defined as four or more people being shot or killed during a single incident—in the United States since January 1, 2018. With the rise of mass shootings in the U.S., many people have been reconsidering the validity of the Second Amendment, which guarantees American citizens the right to bear arms, but many people argue that gun owners just need to be more sensible about owning their firearms.

While owning guns is an American privilege, you can still get into trouble if you are irresponsible with your firearms. By following these three tips for responsible ownership, you can lower the chance you can reduce your chances of being subject to criminal gun charges.

#1: Educate Yourself

One of the first things you should do if you have wish to obtain a firearm ownership identification card (FOID) is educating yourself on proper firearm usage. There are many classes available covering topics such as safety, disassembly and reassembly and basic usage. Taking one or more of these classes will help you practice proper usage and safety.

#2: Practice Safe Handling

There are many ways you can practice handling or using a gun safely. Always treat a gun as if it is loaded, even if you think it is not. Safety is paramount when it comes to firearms. Never point a gun in the direction of someone else. Keep the gun pointed down or away from others until you are ready to safely shoot. Never have your finger on the trigger unless you are ready to shoot. Your finger should rest alongside the frame of the gun and outside of the trigger guard if you are holding the gun.

#3: Store Guns Securely

If you own a gun, that gun is your responsibility, even when it is being stored. You are responsible for ensuring that your firearms are stored securely and safely, and that you or other authorized users are the only ones who can access the firearms. Guns should always be stored unloaded, ideally with a gun-locking device on the firearm. You should also invest in a locked cabinet, safe, gun vault or storage case to keep your firearms when they are not in your physical possession. Ammunition should always be stored in a separate place from the firearms.

Are You Facing Criminal Gun Charges?

You could follow all of the above tips on how to be a responsible gun owner and still be facing criminal charges. Gun charges are taken very seriously these days, which is why you should contact a Joliet gun charges defense attorney, even before you are actually charged. The Law Offices of Jack L. Zaremba, P.C. can help you navigate your situation and avoid a gun charge at all costs. To discuss your case, call the office at 815-740-4025 and set up a free consultation.