What is the recommended state of the weapon when not actively engaged during patrol?

• A. On safe.
• B. On fire.
• C. Cocked and ready.
• D. In pocket.

Answer: (A)

When you’re not actively engaged, safety comes first: keep the weapon on safe. Engaging the safety prevents the trigger from releasing the hammer or striker, reducing the risk of an accidental discharge while you’re patrolling and moving about. Even with the safety on, keep your finger off the trigger, point the muzzle in a safe direction, and store or secure the weapon in a holster or other appropriate position so you can draw it quickly if needed. The other states undermine safety during routine patrol: on fire would allow discharge, cocked and ready means a round is chambered and the weapon could fire, and being kept in a pocket removes proper control and retention.