gun-owners

OWNING A GUN MEANS ACCEPTING RESPONSIBILITY.
BE READY.

Maybe you have a gun for hunting. Or maybe you carry one legally for self defense. Whatever your reason for owning a firearm, a commitment to secure storage is your personal responsibility.

RESOURCES FOR GUN OWNERS

A black handgun is securely placed inside a beige lockbox, which is open on a black table. The lockbox also contains a magazine and some compartments, including a slot with a gold card.

Safe Gun Storage Options

Explore gun storage options and find one that fits your lifestyle. That way, you can create an environment where accidents are prevented, unauthorized access is minimized, and peace of mind prevails.

A person seen from behind, wearing an orange safety vest and hat, holding a rifle, stands in a grassy field under a cloudy sky, likely during a hunting trip.

Fact or Myth?

In the world of guns, misinformation can cloud the conversation. Understand the facts, so you can have important conversations and create a safe place to live, both in your home and in your community.

A rifle with a wooden stock and scope is placed inside a black foam-lined hard case; the background is out of focus, showing wooden furnishings.

Temporary Storage

Maybe you’re simply traveling or redoing your kitchen. Or maybe you or someone you love is struggling with thoughts of suicide. Either way, make a plan for safe temporary storage before it’s too late.

A disassembled black handgun is laid out on a white surface, showing the slide, barrel, recoil spring, magazine, and frame with a single bullet visible in both the barrel and the magazine.

Reporting Lost Guns

Losing a firearm or having it stolen is bad enough. But finding out that your lost or stolen gun was used in a subsequent crime is even worse. Reporting these incidents promptly gives law enforcement a head start (and may even help you recover your gun). It’s also the law.

SAFE GUN OWNERSHIP CHECKLIST

Gun Safety & Education

I have spoken to my child about what to do if they find an unsecured gun.

I discuss gun storage and safety rules with my children.

I’ve passed a firearm safety course with a certified instructor.

I always treat every gun like it’s loaded.

Gun Storage & Security

I store my guns unloaded and in a locked location like a gun cabinet, safe, or vault.

I store ammunition or loaded magazines in a locked location separately from my guns.

I have taken reasonable steps to make sure kids and other unauthorized users can’t find the keys or combination to my safe.

I use key or combination-code trigger locks to prevent the trigger from being pulled and the firearm from discharging.

I change the locks on my guns and/or safe(s) from time to time.

If my gun safe is battery-operated, I regularly check the battery power.

Maintenance & Monitoring

I clean my gun regularly and check it for wear or malfunctions.

I review the locations of my guns and ammunition monthly to make sure everything is stored safely and accounted for.

I understand what ammunition works in each of my guns and keep calibers separated.

I keep a log book containing all my gun serial numbers.

GUN SAFETY TIPS

A man gently rests his hand on a childs shoulder outdoors. Text reads: Early Support Matters. Understanding warning signs can help you act sooner. A blue speech bubble with Lets Talk Colorado appears in the corner.

Recognizing the Signs Isn’t Always Obvious

Suicidal ideation warning signs in teens can be difficult to recognize and aren’t always obvious. Learning about changes in behavior, mood, or withdrawal can help parents and caregivers respond early. Conversations about mental health and access to support are an important part of prevention. Explore the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention guide for parents https://afsp.org/teens-and-suicide-what-parents-should-know/.

Preparation Leads to Safety

If you’re hosting a child for a sleepover or playdate, your preparations involve safety. Make sure to: • Keep your firearms locked in a secure safe. • Ensure firearms are out of sight and out of reach of children. • Double-check that everything is secured before guests arrive.

If You Aren’t Ready to Pull the Trigger, Keep Your Finger Off of It

If you’re not ready to pull the trigger or your sights are not on your target, keep your finger off the trigger. Extend your index finger on the slide or frame of the gun, as high you can and away from the trigger guard. Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to fire is …

It’s Okay to Ask Questions

Asking questions is part of being a responsible gun owner. Asking how a lock works, how to change a safe combination, or how to store a firearm securely isn’t inexperience. It's a commitment to safety. Most accidents happen when people assume they already know. Take time to ask, verify, and learn.

Checking that your barrel is clear of obstructions before shooting is a simple habit that can make a big difference in safety. Even the smallest amount of debris can lead to dangerous pressure buildup, potentially causing serious accidents.

When it comes to firearm safety, practice is more than just firing rounds, it’s about preparation and routine. The more familiar you become with inspecting and assembling your firearm, the smoother and safer your handling will be.

From safely unboxing and checking that it’s empty, to confidently operating all the controls, consistent practice builds confidence and makes safety second nature.

Is it an emergency?

Dial 911 for immediate assistance.

OWNING A GUN MEANS ACCEPTING RESPONSIBILITY. BE READY.