Los Santos Police Department

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Firearm safety is the law in San Andreas. Every firearm owner should understand and follow firearm safety practices, have a basic familiarity with the operation and handling of their firearm, and be fully aware of the responsibility of firearm ownership. According to Penal Code Section 02 License & Permit Law, (2) A. Firearms Permit, any person who acquires a firearm must have a Firearms Permit (FP), unless they are statutorily exempt from the FP requirement. To obtain an FP, a person must pass a LSPD written test on firearm safety, the test is administered by LSPD Certified Instructors.

This study guide provides the basic firearm safety information necessary to pass the test. Following the firearm safety information in this guide will help reduce the potential for accidental deaths and injuries, particularly those involving children, caused by the unsafe handling and storing of firearms. In addition to safety information, this study guide provides a general summary of the state laws that govern the sale and use of firearms. Finally, there is a glossary that defines the more technical terms used in the study guide.

Simply reading this study guide will not make you a safe firearm owner. To be a safe firearm owner you must practice the firearm safety procedures described in the following pages.

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To obtain a license to purchase a firearm (PF), you will be required to fill out an Online Application and pay an application fee of $55,000.

Why Firearm Safety?
Firearm safety is important to all San Andreas citizens. No one wants firearm accidents to happen yet they do every day. Firearm accidents involving children are especially disturbing. Studies show that easy access to loaded firearms in homes is often a contributing factor in accidental shootings of children. While there may be no way to guarantee safety, firearm owners can take steps to help prevent many accidental shootings. This study guide will give you valuable information to help you become a safe and responsible firearm owner.

Firearm Safety is the Law
The intent of the San Andreas Legislature in enacting the FP law is to ensure that persons who obtain firearms have a basic familiarity with those firearms, including but not limited to, the safe handling and storage of those firearms. It is not the intent of the Legislature to require an FP for the mere possession of a firearm. (Pen. Code Section 02 License & Permit Law, (2) A. Firearms Permit) Firearms must be handled responsibly and securely stored to prevent access by children and other unauthorized users. San Andreas has strict laws about firearms, and you can be fined or imprisoned if you fail to comply with them. Visit the Web site of the San Andreas Penal Code for information on firearms laws applicable to you and how you can comply.

Causes of Firearm Accident
Ignorance and carelessness are major causes of firearm accidents. To help reduce the number of firearm accidents, gun safety rules must be understood and practiced at all times by every family member. Following are some examples of firearm accidents that could have been avoided if the basic gun safety rules had been practiced:

• Two young children playing in their home found a loaded handgun with the magazine removed on a bedside table. One child was injured when the handgun was fired.
• A handgun owner assumed a firearm was unloaded. While cleaning it, he accidentally fired the handgun, causing injury to himself.
• A hunter was walking with his finger loosely on the trigger of his rifle. Distracted by a sudden noise behind him, he turned and accidentally fired, injuring his buddy walking nearby

Becoming a safe and responsible firearm owner
Becoming a safe firearm owner is similar to becoming a safe driver—you combine a good working knowledge of the equipment, the basic skills of operation, and a mindset dedicated to safe and responsible usage and storage.
This means you must have:

• Respect for the danger of firearms;
• An awareness and concern about the possible safety hazards related to firearms; and
• A desire to learn and practice safe conduct with firearms.

Developing a mindset for safe and responsible firearm usage and storage is the first step in actually becoming a responsible firearm owner. The next step is building your knowledge of firearms and gun safety, which you can do by reading and understanding the information in this study guide. The final steps are becoming skillful in handling firearms and using the safety knowledge that you have acquired.

It’s a fact that many depressed, intoxicated, substance abusive, or enraged individuals commit suicide every year with firearms, usually handguns. The developmental issues associated with adolescence make teenagers particularly susceptible to this unfortunate outcome. Safe and responsible firearm storage, particularly when a member of the household is experiencing one of the aforementioned conditions, can help prevent tragedies.

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This chapter will introduce you to specific gun safety rules to give you a better understanding of firearm safety:

1. Treat every firearm as if it is loaded:
   Always assume that a gun is loaded, even if you think it is unloaded. Treat it with the same respect and caution at all times.
    
2. Keep the firearm pointed in a safe direction:
   Always point the muzzle in a direction where, if the gun were to discharge, it would not cause injury or damage. This is a critical rule to prevent accidental shootings.
    
3. Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot:
   Keep your finger outside the trigger guard and off the trigger until you have identified your target, and you are ready to fire. This helps prevent unintentional discharges.
    
4. Know your target and what is beyond it:
   Be aware of your target, and know what lies beyond it. Bullets can penetrate through objects, and it's essential to avoid situations where innocent people or property could be harmed.
    
5. Be sure of your target and what's in front of it:
   Identify your target and make sure it is something you intend to shoot. Be aware of the area in front of your target to avoid hitting unintended objects or people.
    
6. Unload firearms when not in use:
   Whenever a firearm is not actively being used, it should be unloaded. This reduces the risk of accidental discharges.
    
7. Store firearms safely:
   Firearms should be stored in a secure manner, inaccessible to unauthorized individuals, particularly children. Use gun safes or lockboxes to prevent accidents and theft.
    
8. Don't rely on the gun's safety mechanism alone:
   While many firearms have safety features, they should not be the only line of defense. Following all safety rules is essential, and the safety mechanism should be used in conjunction with safe handling practices.
    
9. Educate yourself and others:
   Seek out proper training in firearm safety and handling. Stay informed about local laws and regulations regarding firearms. Share your knowledge with others, especially those who are new to firearms.
    
10. Avoid alcohol and drugs when handling firearms:
    Alcohol and drugs impair judgment and coordination, increasing the risk of accidents. Never handle firearms while under the influence of substances that can affect your mental and physical abilities

Never handle a gun when you are emotional such as anger or depression. Your judgment may be impaired, and never shoot a gun in celebration (such as on the Fourth of July or New Year’s Eve, for example), not only is this unsafe, but it is generally illegal. A bullet fired into the air can return to the ground with enough speed to cause injury or death.

Do not shoot at water, flat or hard surfaces, the bullet can ricochet and hit someone or something other than the target. Hand your gun to someone only after you verify that it is unloaded and the cylinder or action is open. Take a gun from someone only after you verify that it is unloaded and the cylinder or action is open.

Guns, alcohol, and drugs don’t mix. Alcohol and drugs can negatively affect judgment as well as physical coordination, alcohol, and any other substances are likely to impair normal mental or physical functions and should not be used before or while handling guns. Avoid handling and using your gun when you are taking medications that cause drowsiness or include a warning to not operate machinery while taking the drug, the loud noise from a fired gun can cause hearing damage, and the debris and hot gas that is often emitted can result in eye injury.

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It is a firearm owner’s responsibility to take all possible steps to make sure a child cannot gain access to firearms. This responsibility is mandated by San Andreas law. The overall abiding rule is to store your gun safely and responsibly at all times. As a firearm owner, you should be aware of the laws regarding children and firearms.

2.1 - Summary of Safe Storage Laws Regarding Children
You may be guilty of a misdemeanor or a felony if you keep a loaded firearm within any premises that are under your custody or control and a child under 18 years of age obtains and uses it, resulting in injury or death, or carries it to a public place unless you stored the firearm in a locked container or locked the firearm with a locking device to temporarily keep it from functioning.

2.2 - You Cannot Be Too Careful with Children and Guns
Never assume that simply because a toddler may lack finger strength, they can’t pull the trigger. A child’s thumb has twice the strength of the other fingers. When a toddler’s thumb “pushes” against a trigger, invariably the barrel of the gun is pointing directly at the child’s face. NEVER leave a firearm lying around the house. Child safety precautions still apply even if you have no children or if your children have grown to adulthood and left home. A nephew, niece, neighbor’s child, or grandchild may come to visit. Practice gun safety at all times. To prevent injury or death caused by improper storage of guns in a home where children are likely to be present, you should store all guns unloaded, lock them with a firearms safety device, and store them in a locked container. Ammunition should be stored in a location separate from the gun.

2.3 - Talking to Children about Guns
Children are naturally curious about things they don’t know about or think are “forbidden.” When a child asks questions or begins to act out “gun play,” you may want to address his or her curiosity by answering the questions as honestly and openly as possible. Also, it is important to remember to talk to children in a manner they can relate to and understand. This is very important especially when teaching children about the difference between “real” and “make-believe.” Let children know that, even though they may look the same, real guns are very different than toy guns. A real gun will hurt or kill someone who is shot.

2.4 - Instill a Mind Set of Safety and Responsibility
The American Academy of Pediatrics reports that adolescence is a highly vulnerable stage in life for teenagers struggling to develop traits of identity, independence, and autonomy. Children, of course, are both naturally curious and innocently unaware of many dangers around them. Thus, adolescents as well as children may not be sufficiently safeguarded by cautionary words, however frequent contrary actions can completely undermine good advice. A “do as I say and not as I do” approach to gun safety is both irresponsible and dangerous. Remember that actions speak louder than words. Children learn most by observing the adults around them. By practicing safe conduct you will also be teaching safe conduct.

Adults should be aware that a child could discover a gun when a parent or any other adult is not present. This could happen in the child’s own home; the home of a neighbor, friend, or relative; or in a public place such as a school or park. If this should happen, a child should know the following rules and be taught to practice them.

1. Stop
   The first rule for a child to follow if he/she finds or sees a gun is to stop what he/she is doing.
2. Don’t Touch!
   The second rule is for a child not to touch a gun he/she finds or sees. A child may think the best thing to do if he/she finds a gun is to pick it up and take it to an adult. A child needs to know he/she should NEVER touch a gun he/she may find or see.
3. Leave the Area
   The third rule is to immediately leave the area. This would include never taking a gun away from another child or trying to stop someone from using a gun.
4. Tell an Adult
   The last rule is for a child to tell an adult about the gun he/she has seen. This includes times when other kids are playing with or shooting a gun.
   
   Please note that, while there is no better advice at this time for children or adolescents who encounter a gun by happenstance.

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Prior to taking delivery of a firearm from a licensed firearms dealer in San Andreas, an individual must correctly perform a safe handling demonstration with the firearm he or she is acquiring. This volume lists each of the steps that constitute the statutorily mandated safe handling demonstrations for the most common handgun types (semiautomatic pistols, double-action revolvers, and single-action revolvers). This volume also includes safe handling demonstration steps for most long gun types.

3.1 - DOUBLE-ACTION REVOLVER SAFE HANDLING
A revolver (graphical representation) has a rotating cylinder containing a number of chambers. There are usually five or six chambers. The action of the trigger or hammer will line up a chamber with the barrel and firing pin. Releasing the cylinder latch allows the cylinder to swing out for loading, unloading, and inspection. Revolvers are either single or double-action. The primary difference between these two types of revolvers is the function of the trigger. On a single-action revolver, the trigger has a single function to release the hammer. The trigger on a double-action revolver has two functions to cock the hammer and to release it.

1. Open the cylinder.
2. Visually and physically inspect each chamber to ensure that the revolver is unloaded.
3. Remove the firearm safety device. If the firearm safety device prevents any of the previous steps, remove the firearm safety device during the appropriate step.
4. While maintaining muzzle awareness and trigger discipline, load one dummy round into a chamber of the cylinder and rotate the cylinder so that the round is in the next-to-fire position.
5. Close the cylinder.
6. Open the cylinder and eject the round.
7. Visually and physically inspect each chamber to ensure that the revolver is unloaded.
8. Apply the firearm safety device, if applicable.

Note: Simply spinning a revolver to an empty chamber does not unload it or make it safe. The cylinder rotates to the next chamber before the hammer falls.

3.2 - SEMI-AUTOMATIC PISTOL SAFE HANDLING
A semi-automatic pistol has a single chamber. Each time the trigger is pulled, a cartridge is fired, the empty case is automatically extracted and ejected, the hammer is cocked, and a new cartridge is loaded into the chamber. The primary difference between revolvers and semiautomatic pistols is how the ammunition is held. Revolvers use a cylinder to hold ammunition. Semiautomatic pistols use a magazine to hold ammunition. A magazine is a separate metal boxlike container into which cartridges are loaded. It is usually located within the grip. A button or catch releases the magazine. Another difference is most semiautomatic pistols have a safety that is designed to prevent firing when engaged. However, it is not foolproof so do not rely on the safety to prevent accidental discharge. Safety should be considered an additional safety measure. Never pull the trigger on any firearm with the safety in the safe. position because thereafter the firearm could fire at any time without the trigger ever being touched. If a firearm is dropped, it may land hard enough to activate the firing mechanism without the trigger being touched.

1. Remove the magazine.
2. Lock the slide back. If the model of the firearm does not allow the slide to be locked back, pull the slide back, visually and physically inspect the chamber to ensure that it is clear.
3. Visually and physically inspect the chamber, to ensure that the firearm is unloaded.
4. Remove the firearm safety device, if applicable. If the firearm safety device prevents any of the previous steps, remove the firearm safety device during the appropriate step.
5. Load one dummy round into the magazine.
6. Insert the magazine into the magazine well of the firearm.
7. Manipulate the slide release or pull back and release the slide.
8. Remove the magazine.
9. Visually inspect the chamber to reveal that a round can be chambered with the magazine removed.
10. Lock the slide back to eject the dummy round. If the firearm is of a model that does not allow the slide to be locked back, pull the slide back and physically check the chamber to ensure that the chamber is clear.
11. Apply the safety, if applicable.

Note: If you release the slide before inserting the magazine, there will NOT be a cartridge in the chamber.

3.3 - LONG GUN SAFE HANDLING
The following safe handling demonstration steps for long guns are generally applicable to the various firearm models of each firearm type (e.g. pump-action long gun, break-top revolver, etc.). However, the specified safe handling demonstration steps may not be appropriate for a particular model of firearm. If uncertain, refer to the owner's manual or consult with a Firearms Licensing Officer.

Pump Action Long Gun

1. Open the ejection port.
2. Visually and physically inspect the chamber to ensure the firearm is unloaded. Visually and physically inspect the magazine follower to ensure the magazine is unloaded (if the magazine follower is not visible, there may be shotshells or cartridges lodged in the tubular magazine).
3. Remove the firearm safety device. If the firearm safety device prevents any of the previous steps, remove the firearm safety device during the appropriate step.
4. While maintaining muzzle awareness and trigger discipline, load one dummy round into the magazine loading port.
5. Pull the forend (or forearm) rearward toward the receiver causing the dummy round to enter the breech. Push the forend forward to chamber the round. The dummy round should have moved from the tubular magazine into the chamber.
6. Push the action (carrier) release button and again pull the forend toward the receiver causing the action to open. The dummy round should extract from the chamber and be ejected through the ejection port.
7. Engage the safety.
8. Apply the firearm safety device, if applicable.

Bolt Action Long Gun

1. Visually and physically inspect the chamber/barrel to ensure the long gun is unloaded. Also visually and physically inspect the internal magazine to ensure it is unloaded.
2. Remove the firearm safety device. If the firearm safety device prevents any of the previous steps, remove the firearm safety device during the appropriate step.
3. While maintaining muzzle awareness and trigger discipline, load one dummy round into the chamber/barrel.
4. Close and lock the action.
5. Unlock and open the action.
6. Remove the dummy round.
7. Apply the firearm safety device, if applicable

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4.1 - UNDERSTAND THE SAFETY ASPECTS OF YOUR FIREARM
Firearms must be handled responsibly and securely stored to prevent access by children and other unauthorized users. San Andreas has strict laws pertaining to firearms, and you can be fined or imprisoned if you fail to comply with them. Get advice from a professional salesperson on the safety aspects of the firearm you are considering buying. Select the firearm that best suits your personal needs. Ask a lot of questions! Ask about the correct ammunition for the firearm you have selected. Become thoroughly familiar with the mechanics of the firearm you have selected. By knowing exactly how your firearm works, you are more likely to recognize any possible safety problems.

4.2 - CAREFULLY READ ALL INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIAL
An owner’s manual from the manufacturer of your firearm should be provided when you buy a new firearm. Manuals for used firearms usually can be obtained by writing or calling the manufacturer. Carefully read the manual and use it to familiarize yourself with the firearm and its operation.

4.3 - ENROLL IN A FIREARM TRAINING COURSE
To help you learn to drive a car you probably had some “behind the wheel” training and practice before you got your driver’s license. This also applies to firearm ownership. The best way to become skilled in using and understanding how your firearm operates is to enroll in a “hands-on” training course. There are many firearm training courses that can provide additional safety information. For information on training courses in your area, contact a local firearms dealer or firearms safety organization.

4.4 - CLEANING AND REPAIR
Maintenance is part of being a responsible firearms owner. Firearms should be cleaned regularly and especially after prolonged storage. The barrel should be cleaned after every use. Accumulated moisture, dirt or grease can interfere with the efficient and safe operation of a firearm.

Firearm cleaning kits and materials can be purchased from most firearms dealers. Be aware that some firearm cleaning substances are toxic. Carefully read and follow the instructions on the cleaning products.
You should clean your firearm in a location where you will have no distractions. Before you begin, always make sure your firearm is unloaded and remove any ammunition from the cleaning area. Accidents can happen if cleaning procedures are not followed correctly and safely. Therefore, you should follow the cleaning instructions in your owner’s manual and on your cleaning products. Firearms dealers or gunsmiths also are good sources for cleaning information.

Care should be taken to ensure adequate ventilation at all times to reduce the risk of inhaling lead particles. To avoid accidental ingestion of lead particles, never handle food or drink without first washing your hands. Do not smoke when exposed to lead. Wash your hands thoroughly after exposure. Periodically inspect all firearms you own to be sure that they are in good working condition. If you notice any problems, have your firearm checked by a competent gunsmith. Any repairs should be made only by a gunsmith or the manufacturer of the firearm. You should not attempt to make any major modifications to your firearm. Some modifications are illegal and dangerous. They also could void the manufacturer’s warranty. By keeping your firearm properly maintained, you will ensure that it is safe to operate and will function reliably for many years.


4.5 - SAFETY AND STORAGE DEVICES
If you decide to keep a firearm in your home you must consider the issue of how to store the firearm in a safe and secure manner. In a special report by Harvard Public Health, it is stated that a gun in the home raises the suicide risk for everyone: gun owner, spouse and children alike.1 San Andreas recognizes the importance of safe storage by requiring that all firearms sold in San Andreas be accompanied by a DOJ- approved firearms safety device or proof that the purchaser owns a gun safe that meets regulatory standards established by the DOJ.

There are a variety of safety and storage devices currently available to the public in a wide range of prices. Some devices are locking mechanisms designed to keep the firearm from being loaded or fired, but don’t prevent the firearm from being handled or stolen. There are also locking storage containers that hold the firearm out of sight. For maximum safety you should use both a firearm safety device and a locking storage container to store your unloaded firearm.

Two of the most common locking mechanisms are trigger locks and cable locks. Trigger locks are typically two-piece devices that fit around the trigger and trigger guard to prevent access to the trigger. One side has a post that fits into a hole in the other side. They are locked by a key or combination locking mechanism. Cable locks typically work by looping a strong steel cable through the action of the firearm to block the firearm’s operation and prevent accidental firing. However, neither trigger locks nor cable locks are designed to prevent access to the firearm.

Smaller lock boxes and larger gun safes are two of the most common types of locking storage containers. One advantage of lock boxes and gun safes is that they are designed to completely prevent unintended handling and removal of a firearm. Lock boxes are generally constructed of sturdy, high-grade metal opened by either a key or combination lock. Gun safes are quite heavy, usually weighing at least 50 pounds. While gun safes are typically the most expensive firearm storage devices, they are generally more reliable and secure.

Remember: Safety and storage devices are only as secure as the precautions you take to protect the key or combination to the lock.



4.6 - METHODS OF CHILDPROOFING
As a responsible firearm owner, you need to be aware of the methods of childproofing your firearm, whether or not you have children.
Whenever children could be around, whether your own, or a friend’s, relative’s or neighbor’s, additional safety steps should be taken when storing firearms and ammunition in your home.

• Always store your firearm unloaded.
• Use a firearms safety device AND store the firearm in a locked container.
• Store the ammunition separately in a locked container.

Always storing your firearm securely is the best method of childproofing your firearm; however, your choice of a storage place can add another element of safety. Carefully choose the storage place in your home especially if children may be around.

• Do not store your firearm where it is visible.
• Do not store your firearm in a bedside table, under your mattress or pillow, or on a closet shelf.
• Do not store your firearm among your valuables (such as jewelry or cameras) unless it is locked in a secure container.
• Make sure the location you store your firearm and ammunition is not easily accessible to children.
• Consider storing firearms not possessed for self-defense in a safe and secure manner away from the home.

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