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Firearm safety for suicide prevention
Educational guidance. No operational firearm instruction.
Safer storage basics (layered)
- Locked: Use a quality lockbox/safe or locking device that limits access.
- Unloaded: Store firearms unloaded where possible.
- Separate: Store ammunition separately and locked.
- Access control: Limit who has keys/codes—especially during elevated risk.
When risk is elevated
- Increase layers (locking + separating + restricting access).
- Consider temporary, voluntary steps to further restrict access until the crisis passes.
- Write a short plan: who holds access, what changes during tough weeks, and when you’ll reassess.
Homes with kids, dementia, or other vulnerability
- Assume curiosity and impulsivity can increase access attempts.
- Prefer storage that is locked with access limited to responsible adults.
- Re-check storage after moves, visitors, conflict, or routine changes.
Firearm safety for suicide prevention
Educational guidance. No operational firearm instruction.
Safer storage basics (layered)
- Locked: Use a quality lockbox/safe or locking device that limits access.
- Unloaded: Store firearms unloaded where possible.
- Separate: Store ammunition separately and locked.
- Access control: Limit who has keys/codes—especially during elevated risk.
When risk is elevated
- Increase layers (locking + separating + restricting access).
- Consider temporary, voluntary steps to further restrict access until the crisis passes.
- Write a short plan: who holds access, what changes during tough weeks, and when you’ll reassess.
Homes with kids, dementia, or other vulnerability
- Assume curiosity and impulsivity can increase access attempts.
- Prefer storage that is locked with access limited to responsible adults.
- Re-check storage after moves, visitors, conflict, or routine changes.