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It’s hard to have open conversations about guns. But it’s OK to ask questions. And most gun owners are happy to talk. We all have the same goal – reducing injuries and deaths in Colorado.

Talking about Guns in your Community.

A blue speech-bubble graphic containing the text: “My child is pretty curious. Is there a gun or anything else dangerous he might get into? How do you secure your guns?”
A blue speech-bubble graphic containing the text: “Our doctor recommended that I check to make sure there are no guns where my child plays. Do you have any guns he could find? How do you secure your guns?”
A blue speech-bubble graphic containing the text: “Is there a gun in your house? Is it locked and secure? Can you lock it up while my child is here?”
A blue speech-bubble graphic containing the text: “My friend is suffering from severe depression and told me he thinks we’d be better off without him. There’s a gun in the house. How can I help make sure my friend is safe?”
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FACTS   

A diagram showing two arrows converging into a single path, with blue and teal circles merging together at the intersection, representing integration or combining of elements.

Americans are not as divided as it may seem about guns and gun ownership. Most are in support of responsible gun ownership.

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MYTHS (Hover over each card to flip)

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Children are too young to understand gun safety rules.
As soon as your kids are aware of guns, you should talk to them about gun safety. Let them know guns are dangerous, and if they see one, they should leave it alone and tell a trusted adult right away.
Two blue arrows, one pointing left and the other pointing right, are arranged in parallel, representing the concept of exchange, swap, or transfer. The background is light gray.
Teens can safely use firearms without adult supervision after learning basic gun handling.
Make sure teens understand the basics of gun safety. They should treat every gun like it's loaded, and should only use guns under the direct supervision of a trainer, parent, or other trusted adult.

GUN VIOLENCE PREVENTION TIPS

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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.
Two people embrace closely. Overlaid text reads, Protecting lives and giving people the time they need to get help. A speech bubble graphic in the corner says, Lets Talk Guns Colorado.
A close-up of two people hugging outdoors, with the text in Spanish: Protegerás vidas al darles el tiempo que necesitan para obtener ayuda. In the corner, a speech bubble reads COLORADO Hablemos de Armas.
Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPOs) help protect people who may be at-risk to themselves or others. By petitioning a judge for temporary firearm access restrictions, ERPOs provide a critical tool for preventing tragedies. It’s about protecting lives and ensuring that individuals get the help they need during a crisis.
Two people ride a ski lift above a snowy, tree-lined mountain slope. A large speech bubble on the image reads, How do you secure your gun?.
Two people sit on a ski lift over a snowy slope surrounded by trees. A speech bubble in Spanish asks, “¿Cómo guardas tu arma de fuego?” and a blue box below reads, “COLORADO Hablemos de Armas.”.
The responsibility of gun safety can continue long after you’ve finished using and storing your firearm. Talking about gun safety with those around you can make a difference in preventing unintentional gun injuries.
Two people sit on grass in the mountains, seen from behind. One has a blanket over their shoulders. A speech bubble above them says, You own a gun, right?.
Two people sit on grassy terrain facing distant mountains under a cloudy sky. A speech bubble above them reads ¿Cómo la guardas? in Spanish.
Gun safety is a complex issue that can be hard to talk about with others. Let’s come together and find common ground to talk about preventing gun violence. We can unite to create a safer Colorado.

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Dial 911 for immediate assistance.

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