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

Conversations Can Go a Long Way

Conversations about guns can go a long way. Whether you grew up around firearms or are new to them, open conversations help build understanding and promote safety. Share what you know, listen with curiosity, and keep the conversation going. You might be surprised by what you learn from each other. Find conversation starters at LetsTalkGunsColorado.com/collective-responsibility/

Extra Layer of Protection

You can store firearms and ammo separately while using storage options that provide fast, secure access to both. Storing ammo separately from a firearm adds an extra layer of protection. It can prevent accidents and misuse. If an unauthorized user gets access to your firearm, separate ammo storage can help stop them from using it.

More Safety, Less Myths

Proper firearm storage is essential for safety, yet some myths can lead to unintended risks. Here’s the reality: Myth #1: Secure storage is too costly or inconvenient. Reality: Quick-access safes are affordable and open in seconds. Myth #2: Placing guns on a high shelf or hiding them without proper storage keeps them safe. Reality: Unintentional users like children or …

The Conversation Matters

Someone handling a firearm unsafely can put everyone at risk. Speaking up isn’t always easy, but as responsible gun owners, we have a shared duty to promote safety. A simple conversation could help prevent an accident and even save a life.

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.