NSSF's Gun Storage Check Week: Promoting Safe Firearm Practices for All Gun Owners

NSSF (National Shooting Sports Foundation) is gearing up for the annual event, Gun Storage Check Week, scheduled from June 1 to June 7. This national initiative aims to raise awareness about the importance of securely storing firearms and encourages gun owners to evaluate their storage practices. As we approach the first week of June, gun owners are urged to embrace the slogan 'Make Sure It's Secure™' to prevent unauthorized access to firearms.

Joe Bartozzi, NSSF’s President and CEO, emphasizes that 'Securely storing guns when they're not in use saves lives—it's that simple.' With statistics highlighting the risks associated with improperly stored firearms, this initiative becomes paramount. The repercussions of leaving guns accessible can lead to tragic outcomes, particularly involving children, individuals in crisis, or thieves.

During Gun Storage Check Week, participants have the chance to engage in the Gun Storage Check Week Sweepstakes, launching on May 30. By visiting gunstoragecheck.org, individuals can enter for a chance to win gun safes and other safety equipment. Moreover, they can earn bonus entries by watching firearm safety videos, emphasizing the dual focus on awareness and practical safety measures.

The objective of this week aligns with National Safety Month, spotlighting the need to curb firearm accidents, especially those impacting youths, suicides, and possessions through theft. Bartozzi points out that merely hiding a firearm is not an adequate solution. 'Hiding a gun on top of a refrigerator, a closet shelf, or under a car seat is no substitute for secure, locked storage.' He encourages gun owners to take a moment and assess their current storage methods, making necessary improvements to ensure safety.

Various storage solutions are available to accommodate the needs of all types of gun owners, from personal defense to hunting. The GunStorageCheck.org website acts as a resource hub, providing information on a range of storage devices, including:

  • - Cable locks: Frequently available at no cost through the NSSF's Project ChildSafe program.
  • - Lock boxes: Ideal for firearms designated for home security or transportation.
  • - Lockable gun cases: Balancing security and portability for gun owners.
  • - Full-size gun cabinets and safes: Recommended for those with multiple firearms, ensuring protection against theft and fire damage.

Moreover, the NSSF is committed to addressing firearm-related suicides through its Have a Brave Conversation initiative. With over half of all gun-related fatalities attributed to suicides, especially poignant among veterans, this focus becomes critical. Bartozzi states, 'Suicide is preventable.' By fostering transparent discussions about suicide risk factors and ensuring firearms are inaccessible to at-risk individuals, gun owners can play a significant role in saving lives.

The concept of temporarily storing firearms outside the home is also a viable option, albeit with adherence to firearm transfer regulations. This pause proves essential, providing the opportunity for suicidal thoughts to pass while connecting individuals to much-needed support.

The firearm community prioritizes safety at home and in the field, and Bartozzi calls for collective responsibility in preventing firearm misuse. Gun Storage Check Week serves as an ideal moment for all to rethink and enhance their firearm storage practices.

To boost awareness of Gun Storage Check Week, taking place from June 1-7, promotional materials are available at GunStorageCheck.org for organizations, businesses, and individuals to utilize. The initiative will reconvene in September during National Suicide Prevention Month, reinforcing the continued focus on gun storage safety.

Topics Policy & Public Interest)

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