Since a firearm should always be ready for use, I give you COL Cooper's rules.
1. A firearm is always loaded. No exceptions.
2. Never point a firearm at something you do not want to destroy. (Remember, bullets come with lawyers attached)
3. Keep you bugger hook off the bang switch until you want to shoot.
4. Be aware of your target and what is behind it. (Bullets will keep moving until they hit something, like the day care center or your neighbors house.)
If you only own one gun and you use it to carry However if you own two or more load only the ones used for carry. The NRA used "Cooper rules"
They proved to be unsafe.
then load it.