Firearm Policy

Unfired Cartridges and Ammunition:

1. Remove all Unfired Cartridges:
2. Ensure that all unfired cartridges are removed from the chamber of the firearm.
3. Package these cartridges separately to prevent contamination.
4. Packaging Unfired Ammunition:
5. Unfired ammunition recovered with a firearm should be packaged in a separate appropriate container.
6. Label the container appropriately for easy identification.
7. Marking Restrictions:
8. Do not mark any part of the cartridge or the bullet directly.
9. Use the container for labeling purposes to maintain the integrity of the evidence.
10. Ensure the container used will not add markings to the firearm or ammunition contained within.
11. Securing Unfired Ammunition:
12. No unfired ammunition should be secured in the gun box with a firearm.
13. Keep ammunition separate to avoid any safety risks.

1. Remove Magazines:
2. When submitting a firearm, remove the magazine from the firearm.
3. Check for Unfired Ammunition:
4. Ensure there is no unfired ammunition left in the magazine.
5. Submission of Empty Magazines:
6. Empty magazines can be submitted in the same gun box as the firearm.

Specific Firearm Actions

1. Semi-automatic Pistol:
2. Pull the slide backward and lock it in place for safe submission.
3. Revolver:
4. Open the cylinder of the revolver.
5. Note and number the position of each fired/unfired round.
6. Secure the weapon with the cylinder open.

1. Engage/Activate Safety Devices:
2. Engage or activate the manual safety switch or device whenever applicable.
3. Secure the Firearm:
4. Secure the firearm in the appropriate box with the safety switch or device visible.
5. Ensure that safety measures are taken to prevent accidental discharge during transportation and storage.

Loaded Firearms

1. Acceptance Policy:
2. Under normal circumstances, loaded firearms will not be accepted for analysis.
3. If a firearm is loaded, it must be rendered safe before submission.
4. Rendering Firearms Safe:
5. If unable to render a firearm safe, take it to the police armoury as soon as possible.
6. Do not submit a loaded firearm to the laboratory without prior consultation with the Evidence Control Unit.