Firearm Safety

WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE
FIREARMS IN YOUR HOME

Securing your firearms should be a priority, even if you don’t have children at home. Securing your firearm decreases the chances of theft due to firearms being a favorite target of thieves. Safely storing a firearm and using a firearm safety device can also eliminate or minimize the risk of unintentional death, injury, or damage caused by improper handling of firearms.

HOW TO SAFELY STORE YOUR FIREARM:
  • Storage methods include keyed locks, combination locks, lock boxes and firearm safes.
  • Keep the keys out of reach of children and where others cannot find them.
  • Store ammunition in a seperate, securely locked container.
  • Use a firearm safety device such as a trigger lock or a cable lock.

BASIC FIREARM SAFETY RULES

  • Treat all firearms as if they are loaded.
  • Always keep your finger off the trigger until you have made the decision to fire.
  • Never point a firearm at anything you are not willing to shoot.
  • Know your target, your target’s environment, and any other safety hazard before you fire.
  • Always keep the gun unloaded until ready to use.

CHILDREN AND
GUN SAFETY

Teach children that guns need to be used safely and responsibly. Remember that hiding a gun is not enough, it needs to be locked up.
  • Keep guns locked and out of reach of children.
  • Store ammunition and guns separately.
  • Never leave a gun out.
  • Tell your kids to never touch a gun or gun parts inside the home.
TEACH YOUR CHILDREN TO FOLLOW THESE FOUR STEPS IF THEY SEE A GUN:

- Stop
- Don’t Touch
- Leave the Area
- Tell an Adult

Download as a printable brochure.

FAQ'S

1What are Gun Owners' Responsibilities?
It is the owner’s responsibility to ensure that guns are stored safely. The number one rule of gun storage is to store your guns so that they are inaccessible to any unauthorized users, especially children.
2How Do I Talk to My Child About Guns?
There is no specific age to talk with your child about guns but a good time to start is once they show interest in firearms. The interest might come from family, friends, toy guns, video games or from the television. Talk openly about gun safety, that approach is more productive than ordering him or her to “Don’t touch that,” and leaving it at that.
3How Often Should I Teach My Child About Gun Safety?
There is no set time but repetition will help children remember standard safety procedures.