Followed closely by the type that "is checked to ensure no rounds are in the firing chamber or in position to be easily fired" (like in the weapon at all).
The first rule of weapons-handling is to treat all weapons as loaded and ready to fire.
The second rule of weapons-handling is to physically check the weapon as soon as you hold it to determine whether it is loaded or not.
The third rule of weapons-handling is to render the weapon safe (unable to fire) unless you are planning to fire it immediately.
The fourth rule of weapons-handling is to never point the muzzle at anything you are not willing to shoot.