Gun Deaths Among NC Kids Double 2019 - 2021, Gun Safety Tips

Haywood County -- June The Haywood County NC Health and Human Services is raising awareness about the

importance of safe firearm storage. Gun deaths among kids doubled in number from 2019-2021.

Keeping firearms securely stored can prevent accidents and save lives. Here are the top three tips for safe firearm storage:

1. Use a Gun Safe or Lockbox: Store your firearms unloaded in a secure, lockable storage container. This keeps them out of reach of children and unauthorized users.

2. Store Ammunition Separately: Keep ammunition in a locked location separate from firearms. This reduces the risk of accidental discharge and unauthorized use.

3. Use Trigger or Cable Locks: Even when firearms are stored, using a trigger or cable lock provides an extra layer of safety by ensuring the firearm cannot be loaded or fired. 

Gun Case 

Most secure option. Can include biometric or electronic locking features.

Lockbox

Can be portable or bolted down for additional security. There are also options designed specifically for use in vehicles.

Cable Lock

Uses a cable threaded through the barrel or action to prevent someone else from firing the gun.

Trigger Lock

Fits easily over the trigger guard to prevent the trigger from being pulled.

Store Your Firearm Safely. These simple tips can save a life.

1. Unload your firearm.

It is best practice to always unload your gun when it’s not in use. Take the time to familiarize yourself with how to unload and clean your specific firearm. When unloading, make sure the muzzle is pointed in a safe direction, preferably to the ground. Remove ammunition, and triple-check that the chamber is unloaded. Never let your guard down: Remember to always handle your gun carefully, as if it is still loaded.

2. Lock it up.

There are several ways to safely lock up your firearm, including gun safes, lockboxes, gun cases, cable locks, and trigger locks. Some of these now include biometric and electronic lock options. For an additional layer of security, consider separating ammunition and firearms when locking them up.

3. Make sure it stays locked.

If your gun lock uses a key, make sure you’re the only one who knows where it’s hidden. If the lock uses a combination or code, don’t use one that an older child might be able to guess, such as a birthday, an anniversary, or the last four digits of your phone number.

4. Don’t leave it unsecured in a car.

More and more guns in North Carolina are being stolen out of parked cars. If you leave a gun in your car, make sure the gun is out of sight and secured with a lock or in a gun case. Consider storage options designed specifically for vehicles, and don’t forget to lock your car too.

Together, we can make our homes and communities safer.