California Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC) Practice Exam

What penalty can be imposed for not storing a firearm safely and it is accessed by a minor causing injury or death?

1. A fine only

2. Incarceration only

3. Both a fine and incarceration

4. No penalty if it was an accident

The correct answer is: Both a fine and incarceration

The correct choice reflects the serious nature of firearm safety, especially when it involves minors. When a firearm is not stored securely and is accessed by a minor, leading to injury or death, it can result in significant legal consequences. This encompasses both fines and potential incarceration to emphasize the responsibility gun owners have in preventing unauthorized access to their firearms. It underscores the legal perspective that firearm owners must take every precaution to secure their weapons to protect the public and, particularly, children. Fines serve as a financial penalty to deter negligence, while incarceration highlights the severity of the situation, acknowledging the potential tragic outcomes that can occur when a firearm is not properly stored. Thus, the combination of both penalties reinforces the importance of safe firearm handling and storage practices to minimize the risk of accidents, especially involving minors.