To minimize the risk of a firearm incident in the home, one should never:

The best practice for minimizing the risk of a firearm incident in the home is to ensure that a firearm and its ammunition are stored separately. Storing them together increases the likelihood of accidental discharge, unauthorized access, or misuse. Keeping ammunition in the same location as the firearm creates an opportunity for someone, especially children, to handle the firearm or ammunition together, which can lead to potentially tragic consequences.

In contrast, safely storing firearms in a secure location, such as a locked cabinet or safe, is a proactive measure that helps prevent unauthorized access while ensuring that the firearm is out of reach of children and untrained individuals. Loading a firearm and cleaning a firearm are necessary aspects of firearm ownership and maintenance, provided they are done following safety protocols. So, the practice of separating firearms and ammunition is crucial for responsible gun ownership and enhancing safety in the home environment.