Harry Krause wrote:

I wouldn't keep a loaded pistol in my house. I do, however, have a
loaded shotgun hidden but handy on each level.

What's the difference? Four loaded, and hidden, shotguns in your
four-story house but a loaded handgun where you don't have to "unhide"
it is bad?

If you have a loaded gun in your house you should have it readily
accessible and be prepared to use it. Stashing one behind the
refrigerator doesn't make sense.

Dan