I’m fairly certain of the answers to a few of the questions, but just don’t want to assume anything wrongly. Thanks.
The most important information is ANY children in the house ever? I keep a couple of guns in a “fake” book shelf above my bed. The shelf is cut in half with a hinge and the few books are also cut in half, leaving room behind for the guns— fully loaded- safety off.
Generally speaking, when you need it, you need it in a hurry.
Keep it cocked and locked on the night stand. You never want to work the action because an intruder may hear it and run before you have a chance to neutralize the threat.
If you have children teach them the safe handling and operation of a fire arm at a very early age. Train often. Marksmanship is a perishable skill.