Question: I read your answer regarding the loaded gun "on" cars
issue and I was left wondering what the person should have done when
approached by the game warden for inspection. Should she have told the
warden to wait while she unloaded the gun? Should she have placed the
gun on the ground? What is the proper protocol in this type of
situation? Please advise. (Rheannon O.)

Answer: First of all, vehicles should automatically be considered a
poor choice to place or to store a loaded weapon. According to Assistant
Chief Mike McBride, when a game warden approaches, the first thing you
should do is follow the directions that the warden gives you. Absent any
directions, here are some good options:

1) Some folks unload their weapon in a calm manner to show respect for
what a loaded weapon can do and respect for the game warden. This shows
the warden you are handing him a safe unloaded weapon.

2) Many folks simply hand the weapon to the warden and that is also
acceptable.

3) Setting the weapon on the ground is acceptable but depending on the
terrain (mud, sand etc), this may not be a prudent choice.

Carrie Wilson is a marine environmental scientist with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. While she cannot personally answer everyone’s questions, she will select a few to answer each week in this column. Please contact her at [email protected].