Firearm Safety

Protect our kids, and keep our families safe.

Per the Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Violence Solutions, “Gun violence is an ongoing public health crisis in the United States that impacts the health and well-being of all of us." In 2020, gun deaths reached the highest number ever recorded. According to data released by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 45,000 people died by gun violence in the U.S. Guns were the leading cause of death among children and teens in 2020, accounting for more deaths than COVID-19, car crashes, or cancers.” We can protect our kids and keep families safe by ensuring these safety guidelines are followed at home and in the vehicle.

In the Home

  • Always keep firearm’s muzzle pointed in safe direction.
  • Keep finger off trigger until intended to fire.
  • Keep firearms unloaded when not in use.
  • Store unloaded firearms locked in a cabinet, safe, gun vault or storage case when not in use.
  • Use gun locking device in addition to primary storage system anytime firearm is not in use
  • Store ammunition in a locked location separate from firearm.
  • Make sure keys and firearm storage are inaccessible to children.
  • Educate your family on firearm safety.

In the Vehicle

  • Keep firearm’s muzzle pointed in safe direction while in vehicle.
  • Unload ammunition before placing firearm in vehicle.
  • Keep firearms and ammunition out of sight in vehicle.
  • Never place a firearm in an area of the vehicle that is accessible to children or pets.
  • Use secure temporary storage in vehicle such as a gun case or lock box.
  • Always lock your vehicle if storing a firearm or ammunition.

Gun Safety for Kids

If you see a gun...

  1. Stop!
  2. Don’t touch.
  3. Run away.
  4. Tell a grown-up.

Resources

Chattanooga Hamilton County Family Justice Center

Services are free of charge and confidential. We also have bilingual staff to serve Hispanic/Latino families. 
Services provided:

  • Assistance in creating a personal safety plan
  • Referral to safe shelters for you, your children, and pets
  • Education and awareness regarding domestic violence, elder abuse, and human trafficking • Referrals to community resources
  • Civil Legal services and help with obtaining Orders of Protection
  • Court support
  • Emotional support
  • Free individual and family counseling