A loaded handgun stored in an oven led to multiple discharges after the oven was turned on, melting the gun and causing a fire hazard. Authorities urge homeowners to avoid storing firearms in unsafe locations like ovens.

CHESTERFIELD, VA (2-minute read) — A Virginia homeowner found themselves in a dangerous situation when a loaded handgun, carelessly stored inside an oven, discharged multiple rounds after the oven was turned on. The incident occurred in Chesterfield, where local firefighters responded to a reported oven explosion.

The Chesterfield County Fire and EMS issued a warning on social media, urging residents not to store firearms or any other items in ovens. According to their statement, when the oven was turned on, the gun heated up to a critical point, causing five rounds to go off inside the appliance. Thankfully, no one was hurt, but the resulting fire could have easily led to a much more serious disaster.

Upon arrival, firefighters discovered the gun melted to the steel grates of the oven. Photos shared by the fire department showed the charred remains of the firearm and the shattered glass of the oven door. The department did not specify which direction the firearm had been facing when the rounds discharged, but it was clear that the force caused significant damage to the oven.

The department highlighted the inherent danger of storing items in places like ovens, particularly firearms. “When you place any item in the oven, it’s easy to forget it’s there,” they warned. “This can lead to fires or something worse when the oven is turned on.”

In this case, the high heat from the oven caused the gunpowder inside the bullets to ignite. According to firearms experts, bullets typically need to reach around 400 degrees Fahrenheit to discharge on their own, a temperature easily reached in an oven.

Responsible gun ownership includes securing firearms in a safe and controlled environment, such as a locked gun safe, and avoiding hazardous areas. In addition to temperature risks, leaving guns in insecure places increases the likelihood of accidents, theft, or misuse.

Storing a loaded firearm in an unsecured, unexpected location like an oven is a recipe for disaster. Not only does it endanger anyone in the vicinity, but it also risks damage to property and can lead to unintended legal consequences.

Safety Tip: Never store firearms in unconventional or unsafe locations. Always keep them locked away when not in use, and out of reach from unauthorized individuals.