If you are handed a firearm, should you always check its status of being hot and ready, even if someone else just cleared the weapon?

• A. No
• B. Only if you were not sure
• C. Yes
• D. It depends on who handed it

Answer: (C)

Always verify the firearm’s status when you take possession. Even if someone else just cleared it, you can’t assume it’s safe because miscommunication or a small lapse can leave a chamber loaded or a round reinserted. The safe practice is to treat every firearm as if it could fire and personally confirm it’s clear. Keep the muzzle in a safe direction, remove the magazine if present, lock the action open, and visually and physically inspect the chamber to ensure it’s empty. If you can’t confirm it’s clear, don’t proceed until you can. This mindset and habit prevent accidental discharges and uphold safety for everyone handling the weapon.