Firearm Safety & Etiquette
Information of this manual entry may be outdated. Updates are coming.
Every member of the unit are allowed to apply to be given permission to carry a firearm while on-duty. However it is with utmost importance that anyone carrying a firearm; be it a flintlock, revolver, rifle or anything else, knows and understands the fundamental rules of handling a firearm. This is for the safety of every member of the unit, as well as the general public. Upon enlisting, even if you have already used a firearm for a long time you need to re-apply with one of the Firearm Safety Officers of the unit, they will test your knowledge and handling of the firearm before you get the go-ahead.
Ask an Officer so they can schedule a Firearm Safety test session for you.
Be aware that any breach of these rules will result in disciplinary action being taken. You may also have your permission to carry a firearm on-duty revoked by an Officer for any and all reasons. Disagreements to having your firearm permission revoked can be taken up with the Captain.
- Always treat a firearm as if it was loaded:
- Every firearm should always be treated as a loaded weapon, even if you and everyone around you knows it is not.
- Never point your firearm at anything or anyone you do not intend to shoot. Accidental discharges can happen.
- Make sure and confirm that the chamber, any magazine or other compartments are clear.
- Check the condition of your firearm:
- When you are handed a firearm, check if it is loaded or not. When you hand a firearm over to someone else, check if it is loaded or not.
- Make sure the safety is on whenever the weapon is not being used.
- Keep your firearm pointed to the ground:
- You should always keep your firearm pointed in a safe direction, towards the ground is a good option. Never point the muzzle towards people or other vital objects you do not intend to shoot at.
- This minimizes the risk of hurting an innocent person if your firearms goes off due to a malfunction
- This also counts during training, even if it is unloaded or you are using blanks.
- Keep your finger off the trigger:
- Your finger should be on the side of the firearm until you are ready to shoot.
- When you take aim at your target you can engage the trigger.
- Be aware of your surroundings:
- Make sure you have full situational awareness around your target.
- Always avoid situations where you can unintentionally hurt bystanders.
- If you can't take the shot without the chance of hitting an innocent bystander, then don't shoot.
- Stay sober:
- Never use a firearm while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
- If you have been given strong medication for an injury by a Medic you will temporarily be disallowed to carry your firearm on-duty.
- Holster discipline:
- When not in use your firearm should be safely secured within its holster.
- Make sure your holster is high quality and fits your weapon.
- Maintenance:
- Perform regular maintenance on your firearm, keep it clean, oiled and functioning properly.
- For more serious issues with your firearm, deliver it to a professional gunsmith for repairs.
- You should never alter nor modify your firearm without the approval from a Firearms Officer. Any alterations and modifications must be done by a professional gunsmith.
- Regular and proper maintenance severely minimizes the risk of accidental discharges.
- Know your firearm:
- Learn how your firearm works, both mechanically and the way it handles in general.
- Disassembling and reassemlbing your firearm is a good way to learn this. You should always have a professional gunsmith show you how the first few times.
- You should do regular training, as well as always remind yourselves of these firearm safety rules.
- Clear victim/suspect weapons:
- Always make sure to clear any and all weapons belonging to either a victim or a suspect that's been found at the scene of a crime.
- In the case of a suspect, you can keep the weapon as well as the bullets as evidence during the investigation.