Safe Firearm Storage

There are an estimated 393 million civilian-owned firearms in the United States, and more than one-third of homes contain at least one gun. Responsible gun owners can make our homes and communities safer by storing their firearms unloaded and locked, with ammunition kept in a separate place, to prevent access by children and other people who are at risk of harming themselves or others. Research shows that these storage practices can play a vital role in reducing the risk of gun violence, particularly among children, due to unintentional shootings and gun suicides. 

Not only is it SMART, it is also the law in Michigan. The law applies to all Michigan residents who own firearms. It’s crucial to secure your guns whenever a minor (under 18) is likely to be present in your home, even if they are visiting. This requirement extends to residents and individuals carrying firearms who enter locations where minors may be present. Under the law, there are two main options for safely storing firearms: unloaded and secured with a locking device or stored in a locked container.

To find a free gun lock near you, visit the MDHHS Secure Storage Law webpage.