dad was NYPD along with some cousins and my Uncle(Moms brother). when they came to family functions they would put their pieces atop the fridge where us little pitchers (hopefully)couldn’t reach them(this was in the ‘50s and early ‘60s and ideas regarding safety were different). this was true for Christmas, Christenings, independence day celebrations...etc.
I do believe it was for comfort while sitting and not for safety. this was before all the nice little lightweight guns and comfortable concealment holsters.
Ha...brought back memories for me. My dad also NYPD in the fifties and I remember as a little tyke him coming home and putting his snub nose .38 on top of his tall dresser in the bedroom. He was a detective by then.