Prevent child and unauthorised access
Most firearm accidents involving children happen with guns that were not locked away. Physical locks plus key control are the core protection.
How
- The CDC says hiding a gun or keeping it out of reach is not safe storage; use a locked safe or lock box.
- Store firearms unloaded and locked, with ammunition stored separately, as the CDC-referenced guidance recommends.
- Keep keys and codes away from children. The UK Home Office stresses key control where children live in the home.
- Teach children never to touch a firearm and to tell an adult if they find one.
- Keep up any training and licence renewals your authority requires.
Safety: Never leave a firearm unattended outside locked storage.
Do these first
Sources
- Preventing Firearm Injury and Death. US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), accessed 2026-11
- Firearms Security Handbook 2020 (accessible version). UK Home Office, accessed 2026-11
- General Laws c.140 s.131L: Weapons, storage. Massachusetts Legislature (USA), accessed 2026-11