With fall in the air, the BC RCMP is reminding hunters of some tips to prevent the loss of property.
“During the hunting season, we see many hunters and firearm enthusiasts travelling throughout the province,” said BC RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Jennifer Cooper. “We would like to encourage the public to be mindful of safe storage and transportation of their firearms, whether they are making a quick stop or staying overnight.”
Transportation:
- Ensure that your firearm is transported out of sight, either in a locked trunk or lockable compartment.
- If the vehicle does not have a locking trunk or compartment, you must make sure they are out of sight inside the locked vehicle. For example, under the back seat or covered with a blanket.
- Non-restricted firearms must be unloaded during transportation.
Storage:
- You should not store your firearms in your vehicle overnight.
- Instead, bring your firearms into your hotel or temporary residence with you and place them out of sight and store them unloaded.
- Attach a secure locking device, such as a trigger lock or cable lock, remove the bolt so that the firearm cannot be fired or lock the firearms in a container that is difficult to break into.
- You must also store the ammunition separately from the firearm or in the same locked container as the firearm, if you are traveling with a locking gun case.
Mounties add decals or stickers on a vehicle advertising you own or like guns could make it more likely to become a target of theft.
More firearm safety tips can be found on the RCMP website.
