Author: Kathya Mendez

By: Scott Stuhr
National Program Coordinator at National 4-H Shooting Sports

As we continue to observe National Shooting Sports Month this August, it’s an important time to focus on the rules of gun safety and on the importance of passing on the heritage of safe enjoyment of the sport.

Many writers on this blog have done an excellent job discussing safety, so I want to take a moment and talk about passing along the heritage.  Most people think of 4-H as the “farming & agriculture program” but don’t know that for decades 4-H Shooting Sports has been a nationwide youth development program that uses firearms and archery equipment to teach life skills such as responsibility, discipline and respect.

The program’s focus on safety is paramount, ensuring that participants, many of whom may be handling firearms for the first time, understand the importance of following safety protocols to prevent accidents and promote responsible firearm use. Of course, storing firearms responsibly and securely when not in use is a hallmark of that safety instruction.

All of our Instructors undergo at least nine hours of training in shooting techniques and safety, along with three hours of instruction in positive youth development. They model safe behavior, teaching participants the essential safety rules: Always treat a firearm as if it’s loaded, Never point it at something you don’t intend to shoot, Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire and, Be aware of your target and its surroundings. Specifically, instructors teach and enforce “MAT,” which stands for Muzzle (always pointed in a safe direction), Action (always open until on the line and ready to shoot) and Trigger (finger off the trigger until ready to shoot), to all participants. Additionally, participants learn the importance of wearing appropriate safety gear, such as eye and ear protection.

Regular inspections of firearms and equipment are conducted to maintain safety, with any malfunctioning or unsafe gear immediately removed from use. Participants are taught to take personal responsibility for their actions, understanding that their decisions can have serious consequences. The program also instills discipline and focus, qualities that benefit participants in other areas of life, including academics and future careers.

Finally, Respect is a core value in 4-H Shooting Sports, encompassing respect for rules, peers, instructors and the community. This emphasis on safety and respect helps develop responsible, disciplined and respectful individuals who are prepared to contribute positively to their communities, making the program much more than just training in marksmanship.

The 4-H Shooting Sports commitment to safety is a testament to its dedication to developing well-rounded, responsible young people who are prepared to make a positive impact on the world.

To learn more about the 4-H Shooting Sports program please visit 4-HShootingSports.org, or contact Scott Stuhr, National Program Coordinator, at 402-643-0704 or coordinator@4h-hshootingsports.org.

Scott Stuhr is the program coordinator for the National 4-H Shooting Sports Program. Scott has over 25 years as a 4-H shooting sports instructor and served 7 years on the National 4-H Shooting Sports Committee.

By: Ashlee Dickson
Sales and Marketing Associate at Console Vault

All of us at Console Vault are proud to partner with Project ChildSafe to celebrate and support National Night Out—a special event dedicated to building stronger, safer neighborhoods and expressing our gratitude to the law enforcement officers who work tirelessly to protect us.

What is National Night Out?

National Night Out, held on the first Tuesday in August, is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie. This initiative, spearheaded by the National Association of Town Watch (NATW), aims to enhance the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while fostering a sense of community. The event sees millions of neighbors across thousands of communities in the United States coming together for block parties, festivals, parades, cookouts and various other activities.

A Night to Appreciate Law Enforcement — And Learn More about Keeping Your Home and Family Safe

Law enforcement officers play a crucial role in maintaining the safety and security of our communities. They are often the first responders in times of crisis, the ones who keep our streets safe and the protectors of our loved ones. National Night Out provides a unique opportunity to recognize and appreciate the dedication, bravery and hard work of these officers. Most National Night Out events offer plenty of free resources on safety, in and out of the home.  Many of Project ChildSafe’s law enforcement partners take advantage of the event to hand out Project ChildSafe’s free gun locks and other information on responsible firearm storage. Whether you’re a new firearm owner, have owned firearms for years or even if you don’t have firearms — but do have children — in your home, these resources are for you.

We can all appreciate the importance of feeling secure, whether it’s in your vehicle, home or community. By supporting National Night Out, we can take steps to keep ourselves and our families safer, and contribute to a culture of appreciation and respect for those who put their lives on the line for our protection.

How You Can Participate

Participating in National Night Out is a wonderful way to show your support for local law enforcement and to build a stronger, more connected community. Here are a few ways you can get involved:

Join or Organize an Event: Many neighborhoods host block parties, cookouts and other community events. Check with your local police department or community organization to find out what’s happening in your area.

Thank a Police Officer: A simple gesture of gratitude can go a long way. Take a moment to thank a police officer for their service. Write a note, offer a handshake or simply say “thank you.”

Engage with Your Community: National Night Out is also about building relationships with your neighbors. Take the time to get to know the people who live around you. A strong, connected community is a safer community.

Spread the Word: Use social media to promote National Night Out and to share your appreciation for law enforcement. Encourage your friends and family to participate in local events and to show their support.

Join Us in Celebrating National Night Out

We are honored to stand with Project ChildSafe and communities across the nation in celebrating National Night Out. We believe in the power of strong communities and the critical role that law enforcement plays in maintaining the safety and security we all cherish. Let’s come together to show our appreciation, build lasting relationships and create safer neighborhoods for everyone.

For more information about National Night Out and how you can get involved, visit the official National Night Out website.

Together, we can make a difference. Happy National Night Out!

Ashlee Dickson is a Sales and Marketing Associate with Console Vault, a proud Project ChildSafe partner and leading provider of in-vehicle safes for the responsible storage of firearms and the protection of valuables with innovative security solutions for people on the go. To learn more, visit www.ConsoleVault.com.

By: Shanea Daniels
Director of Chapters and Membership
National African American Gun Association (NAAGA)

Each year, an estimated 200,000 firearms are stolen in the United States. For many of us who purchase firearms to safeguard our homes and families, the idea of our weapons falling into the wrong hands is alarming. While responsible gun owners often consider child safety, less thought is given to preventing theft, especially in everyday scenarios like visiting restricted locations or hosting guests.

Preventing guns from being stolen helps prevent crime in your community, as research shows the majority of guns used in crimes were previously stolen.  You can take direct steps to help make your home, family and community safer with this guide to protecting your firearms from theft and ensuring they always remain secure.

1. First and foremost, avoid storing your firearm in a vehicle’s glove box or center console. These areas are not secure — many can be unlocked with a universal key or even a simple screwdriver.
2. Although new firearms often come with cable locks, which certainly help prevent the gun from being used — especially by a young child — these are insufficient for preventing theft. Fortunately, various affordable and effective options are available, catering to all budgets and needs.
3. For versatile protection, consider these strategies:
   • Portable, Locked Cases: These are perfect for traveling and are often TSA-approved. They provide secure storage while allowing for mobility. Some models can be affixed to the frame of a car seat with a steel cable or bolted to home wall studs.
   • Locking Floating Shelves: These shelves blend seamlessly into home decor while offering quick access to firearms in high-traffic areas.
   • Furniture with Secret Compartments: Ideal for bedrooms, these pieces offer hidden locked storage that can be easily accessed in an emergency, especially with added lighting for nighttime use. Just note that a hidden gun is not secure gun, especially with children in the home – they like to explore, and will find the firearm.
   • Vehicle Console Safes: Customizable and secure, these safes lock with either a key or fingerprint, providing security for firearms in your car.
   • Heavy, Stand-Alone Safes: These safes are difficult to move and can store multiple firearms and ammunition, offering top-notch security within your home.

Firearm safety and personal protection should go hand-in-hand. New and experienced gun owners should take a close look at Project ChildSafe’s new “Gun Storage Check Module” for additional strategies and ideas for secure storage.  From there, research various options online, visit local gun shops and choose the options that best fit your lifestyle. By protecting your firearms effectively, you ensure they continue to protect you and your loved ones. Remember, securing your firearms is not just about safety—it’s about responsibility. Protect what protects you!

Shanea Daniels is the Director of Chapters and Membership for the National African American Gun Association (NAAGA) and serves as the Project Manager for the 2024 National Convention. Shortly after joining NAAGA, both Shanea and her husband became certified firearm instructors. To date, they have successfully trained over 200 families in gun safety. Originally from Philadelphia, PA, Shanea is deeply rooted in her roles as a wife, daughter, sister, mother of two and 2A (Second Amendment) advocate. She is an avid sports fan, cheering passionately for the Philadelphia Eagles.

This week, NSSF launched the first nationwide Gun Storage Check Week to encourage all gun owners to check their firearm storage practices and, if necessary, make changes to prevent unwanted access. Throughout the week-long campaign, Project ChildSafe joined NSSF and other safety partners across the country to remind gun owners and their families to “Make Sure It’s Secure,” including:

• Armed Women of America                                                                     •    Anthony Police Department
• CarbonTV                                                                                                   •    Westlake Police Department
• Shoot Like A Girl                                                                                       •   Newport Beach Police Department
• USA Clay Target League                                                                          •   Folsom Police Department
• Union Sportsmen’s Alliance                                                                   •   Roanoke Police Department
• Women’s Outdoor News                                                                         •   Sebastian Police Department
• Kristy Titus                                                                                                •   Centerville Police Department
• California Waterfowl Association
• Girls with Guns Clothing
• Asian Pacific American Gun Owners Association

Secure firearm storage is the most effective way to help prevent firearm accidents, suicides and theft. Storage options are available at every budget level, including cable locks, lock boxes and full-size safes, to ensure firearms are securely stored when not in use. When circumstances warrant it, temporary offsite storage can be a solution, but remember to follow applicable firearm transfer laws.

We’re calling on all Project ChildSafe supporters to join us this Gun Storage Check Week – here’s a few ways you can help promote secure firearm storage within your communities:

• Visit the Gun Storage Check Week site and complete Project ChildSafe’s new module on firearm storage solutions that best fit your needs and lifestyle
• Explore the Gun Storage Check Week promotional toolkit, which includes:
  • Downloadable social media graphics and digital ads
  • Downloadable logos and infographics to add to your organization’s website
  • Audio public service announcements
  • Printable posters to display in your business
• Enter for a chance to win one of 25 FREE lock boxes provided in partnership with ShotLock at GunStorageCheck.org 
• Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X to reshare our social media content throughout the week.
  • Consider taking some photos that include Project ChildSafe materials/gun locks and send them to pcsstaff@projectchildsafe.org to be shared on Project ChildSafe’s social media accounts.
  • Post your own photos on social media and tag Project ChildSafe with the campaign hashtags (#GunStorageCheckWeek #GSCW) to be featured on our page.
• Remind your friends and family to review their secure storage practices to ensure they are doing their part to prevent unwanted access to their firearms. Check out these resources:
  • A Gun Storage Check Week infographic for reviewing safe storage practices
  • A handout on Firearm Storage Options detailing safe storage options for your lifestyle
  • A handout on Tips for Firearm Safety in your home

We can all do our part to help prevent firearm accidents, suicides and thefts. As support for Gun Storage Check Week continues to grow, so does our ability to reach more people with this vital safety messaging.

To quote NSSF’s President and CEO, Joe Bartozzi: “No one wants their gun in the hands of an unsupervised child, a person in crisis, an individual who lacks knowledge of firearms or a thief. If something bad happens because your gun isn’t stored securely, you’ll regret it, probably forever.”

Keep an eye out for the launch of a second Gun Storage Check Week observance coming September 1-7 to coincide with National Suicide Prevention Month.