As the main game shooting season is almost upon us in the U.K. it may serve as a useful reminder to point out an individual’s responsibility for the safe keeping of their firearms whilst in transit or away from their normal storage location.
It is the certificate holder’s responsibility to ensure all reasonable steps are taken to prevent unauthorised access to their shotguns and firearms. This is the overarching principle and so long as this can be shown one should not fall foul of your firearms licensing department. However, should this not be the case and negligence plays a part you can expect to have your certificate revoked and possibly be the subject of criminal legal proceedings.
The Firearms Security Handbook, 2019 produced by the Home Office gives comprehensive guidance on all aspects of firearms safety whether it be section 1, section 2 or section 5 prohibited firearms and if one adheres to the steps suggested you will have complied with your duty of care. Some of the main recommendations are listed below and a more detailed account can be seen in the full document here:
FIREARMS SECURITY HANDBOOK 2019
Private individuals carrying firearms in a vehicle:
- Whenever possible the vehicle should not be left unattended and if this is unavoidable the vehicle should be locked with an immobiliser and/or alarm fitted.
- Vehicles should be parked in a position to frustrate attempts to enter and also where they can be overlooked.
- Firearms should be stored out of sight, preferably in the boot or other secure load carrying area and out of sight of passers-by.
- Firearms and ammunition should be stored separately and if possible, the bolt, magazine or other operating part should be separated from the firearm and carried on the person or kept in a locked container secured to the vehicle.
- During overnight stops the certificate holder should make arrangements to ensure the firearms are secure e.g. accommodation that provides secure facilities, retaining possession of integral parts and using portable security devices.
- If it is not possible to personally transfer firearms, shotguns and section 5 items then the services of a reputable carrier should be enlisted. Should this be the case we would be happy to assist, please contact info@force5carriers.co.uk for further details.