Best Practices

All Adults Can Help Keep Kids Safer

If there’s a gun or guns in your home or vehicles, it’s essential to store them so that they’re inaccessible to kids and any unauthorized people. The best secure storage solution for you is the one that you will use consistently. There are many types of storage devices that meet the needs of different gun owners.

Don’t make the mistake of assuming that “hiding” a gun or placing it somewhere that seems out-of-reach will keep a kid from getting their hands on it. And keep in mind that the gold standard for secure gun storage is to keep all guns unloaded, locked up, and separate from ammunition.

If you’re not a gun owner, you can Be SMART by asking friends, family, and neighbors how they store their guns. While it may feel awkward asking the question at first, the more you do it, the easier it will become. Treat it like any other safety issue. For ideas about how to start the conversation, check out these tips on asking about secure gun storage.