June is National Gun Violence Awareness Month: Safe Firearm Storage

June is recognized across the country as National Gun Violence Awareness Month, a time to encourage conversations about responsible firearm ownership, safe storage, and preventing accidental injuries.

For many North Carolina families, firearms are an important part of hunting, sport shooting, recreation, and personal protection. Regardless of why someone owns a firearm, safety experts agree that secure storage is one of the most effective ways to prevent accidents and unauthorized access.

The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), the American Academy of Pediatrics, and other safety organizations recommend several simple steps:

• Store firearms unloaded when not in use.

• Lock firearms in a gun safe, lock box, or with a trigger or cable lock.

• Store ammunition separately from firearms.

• Keep keys or combinations out of reach of children and unauthorized users.

• Teach children that if they find a firearm, they should not touch it and should immediately tell a trusted adult.

  
  

According to public safety experts, secure firearm storage helps reduce accidental shootings, theft, and unauthorized access by children or individuals in crisis.

Many law enforcement agencies and community organizations also offer free or low-cost gun locks throughout the year. Residents can contact their local sheriff's office or police department to learn about available firearm safety resources.

National Gun Violence Awareness Month serves as a reminder that responsible firearm ownership includes taking steps to protect families, neighbors, and the community through safe handling and secure storage.