Be SMART & NOBLE
A partnership between Be SMART and the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives
It Starts at Home
Gun owners can make their homes and communities safer by storing their guns securely when not in the owner’s immediate possession. This means storing them unloaded, locked, and when possible, separate from ammunition. Securing firearms protects children and adults by preventing unintentional shootings, gun suicides and all tragedies that can result when a child or teen accesses an unsecured gun.
Myth
Storage devices defeat the purpose of owning a gun by putting barriers between the gun owner and their means of defense.
Fact
There are many affordable options for firearm storage that provide owners with quick access to their guns while still preventing access by children and people at increased risk of harming themselves or others. Further, it is possible that unsecured guns may actually increase the likelihood of crime and violence through an increased risk of gun theft. Each year, an estimated 200,000 to 500,000 guns are stolen from homes and cars. Many of these guns are funneled into the underground market, where once-legally-owned firearms can be transferred to people with dangerous histories.
The Impact of Gun Violence on Black Communities
What can you do? Learn to Be SMART because It Starts At Home.
Secure all guns in your homes and vehicles.
Model responsible behavior around guns.
Ask about the presence of unsecured guns in other homes.
Recognize the role of guns in suicide.
- A Continuum of Gun Access Interventions for Preventing Gun Suicide
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline can be reached by calling or texting 988, or by chatting on 988lifeline.org
- The Trevor Project: The LGBTQIA+ Youth Suicide Prevention Line Trevor Liveline: +1 (866) 488-7386
- Crisis Text Line Text “HOME” to 741-741 from anywhere in the United States, anytime, about any type of crisis
- Teen Line Call 1-800-852-8336 or text TEEN to 839863 from 6PM – 9PM PT
Tell your friends and neighbors to Be SMART.
Spread the Word
Share the following graphics on Facebook or download for Instagram and Threads.
Connect with Be SMART
There are thousands of Be SMART volunteers in your communities and neighborhoods that are delivering the Be SMART message across the country in all 50 states. Sign up to contact your local Be SMART program today!
Connect with NOBLE
Since 1976, The National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) has served as the conscience of law enforcement by being committed to justice by action.
