Category: Uncategorized

By: Ashley Malfitano
Founder of Kinsey Rhea

Years ago, our family owned a boutique where we sold clothing and accessories for the whole family. We prided ourselves on maintaining a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere, complete with a children’s play area to keep the little ones entertained while parents shopped. 

Our boutique wasn’t just a store; it was a place where families could feel comfortable and cared for. The children’s play area was a big hit, allowing parents to browse our collections without worry. We believed in creating a space that was safe and enjoyable for everyone. 

During a particularly busy holiday sale, we were showcasing a new selection of concealed carry bags to a customer. Out of the blue, she looked surprised and asked, “How did you know that I carry?” We hadn’t known – we were simply highlighting our new products. It was then that we noticed she had placed her purse on the floor. This interaction sparked a vital conversation about the importance of purse safety, especially around children, and led to a list of important purse safety tips everyone should keep in mind—whether you carry or not. 

1. Never leave your purse unattended

Leaving your purse unattended, even for a moment, can lead to theft. Busy shopping environments are prime spots for opportunistic thieves. Your purse contains valuable items such as your wallet, phone, keys and possibly even personal identification or credit cards — all of which can be quickly snatched if left unguarded. 

Beyond theft, an unattended purse can pose serious risks to children. Kids are naturally curious and may explore the contents of an unattended bag, which could contain dangerous items like medication, sharp objects or, in the case of concealed carry purses, firearms.

2. Don’t hang your purse on the back of your chair

One common mistake that many people make is hanging their purse on the back of their chair in a public setting. 

This makes it easy for someone to grab it and run away, and in an instant they have your purse and self-defense weapon all in one fell swoop. Instead, keep your purse close to you and place it on the floor or on your lap. 

You need to have situational awareness when in public of where you set down your bag. If you go to the bathroom while dining at a restaurant, take your bag with you. The other guests at the table are most likely not aware of where you put your purse and won’t be watching it while gone. This is a big one!

3. Keep your purse close to your body

One of the most important things to remember when carrying a concealed carry purse is to keep it close to your body. This means holding it in front of you or close to your side. You can also tuck it under your arm to make it more difficult for someone to grab it. 

Personally, I like to always carry my purse crossbody on my left hip. It is a habit, because I am right-handed and have my handgun easily positioned to grab with my right hand from my left hip where the purse is resting.

4. Use a purse with a built-in security feature

Some purses come with built-in security features like a lock or RFID-blocking technology. These features can help keep your purse secure and prevent someone from stealing your personal information. 

Using a lock on a concealed carry handbag is useful and a crucial safety feature with small children around because it prevents unauthorized access to the firearm, reducing the risk of accidental injuries or misuse by curious kids. 

Summary 

In conclusion, purse safety for moms on the go is not just about protecting your valuables but also about ensuring the safety of those around you, especially children. By following these simple tips—never leaving your purse unattended, keeping it close to your body, avoiding hanging it on the back of a chair and using purses with built-in security features—you can significantly reduce the risk of theft and accidental harm. 

Our experience at the family boutique taught us the importance of these precautions firsthand. Staying vigilant and mindful of where and how you carry your purse can make all the difference in keeping your essentials secure and your loved ones safe. 

Ashley Malfitano is the founder of Kinsey Rhea, a brand dedicated to providing stylish and functional concealed carry products for women. She is a busy mom to three little girls and wife of a fireman, with a passion for entrepreneurship and a commitment to designing products that empower women in their 2A lifestyle. Kinsey Rhea is a brand by women for women at the intersection of safety and style. Ashley’s vision is that every woman deserves to feel confident, and their concealed carry purses let women bring fashion-forward peace of mind everywhere they go. 

By: Gabby Franco
Director of Chapters and Membership
Olympian, Firearms Instructor, Competitive Shooter, and Author

Not even the hot sun on a clear day made me stop shivering. So, I returned to the gymnasium to wait for my turn to get to the line. I knew my unstoppable shaking had nothing to do with the cold room. It was a mental battle between thinking about what I needed to do and the consequences of winning or losing.

My coach, Otar, an older man of average stature, walked towards me with his hands clasped behind his back and with the serious look that often characterized him. He put his left arm around my shoulders while we stared at my shooting lane. I had qualified for the female air pistol finals, which was about to begin. I was standing in second place.

Otar said something in Russian while gripping my left shoulder tighter. Then, he whispered in Spanish: “Regardless of what you do today, remember you are a champion in my and your parents’ eyes. You know what you need to do. Think only about that and nothing else. Now, go and do what you love to do!”

That day, I won the silver medal in air pistol at the 1999 Pan American Games in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, earning me a spot to compete at the 2000 Olympic Games and becoming the first Venezuelan female shooter to compete at the Olympics.

My story is just one of thousands of competitive shooters’ who were blessed to have someone take them to the gun range to learn about firearm safety and how to shoot. For that, I will always be thankful to my father, an avid hunter, and my mother (who never liked firearms, but that’s a story for another day) for taking my siblings and me to the range and giving us the opportunity to thrive in shooting sports.

Like my parents, you can make a difference in someone’s life.

Encouraging gun owners to visit the gun range can help them improve their skills and creates opportunities to teach safe firearm handling to their children and grandchildren. Taking someone to the range who’s never heard about shooting as a pastime or sport can change their whole perspective about gun ownership and our Second Amendment rights. Regardless of the motive, education is a win for everyone.

You can participate in the movement in many ways, whether as a gun owner, firearm retailer, gun manufacturer or a gun range. Go to the National Shooting Sports Month website to learn more about the movement.

See you at the range!

Gabby Franco is an accomplished author, speaker, competitive shooter, and instructor, recognized worldwide for her shooting skills and advocacy for the right to own and bear arms. In addition to winning three gold medals at the South American Games, Gabby is widely known for her participation in the History Channel’s reality TV show Top Shot, where she became the only woman to advance to the finals. She is a firearms instructor, USPSA competitive shooter sponsored by Walther Arms and Primary Arms, and author of the book “Troubleshooting, Mastering Your Pistol Marksmanship.” Gabby is also a proud Army wife, a mother of one, and a Second Amendment rights advocate, working to educate and empower thousands of people through live and virtual training across the United States and Puerto Rico, hallmarked by her message of dedication, sportsmanship, and positive attitude. You can learn more about Gabby here.

By: Gracyn Rouse
Miss Missouri’s 2023 Teen 

When I was young, I was always at my grandpa’s house.  I was always right beside him no matter what I was doing. One day, he brought out a trap machine. I watched him for hours, breaking one clay at a time with his shotgun. At that moment, I knew that I wanted to do just what he was doing.  

I have been trap shooting for six years now, including two years at a competitive level. All of these years, I have loved every single minute of shooting, whether it was with my dad or my grandpa. Like most shooters, I was taught firearm safety early on — how to hold my gun, how to clean it and how to store it properly. It was second nature to me, but it really struck home when I was 11 years old. One of my dear friends took their own life with a firearm that was not secured correctly and safely.  

I was angry, sad and heartbroken. I look back on that day and think of what would’ve happened – how she might still be alive today – if that firearm was put away and not accessible to them. That terrible tragedy changed my life and became my drive to tirelessly advocate for firearm safety and responsible storage.  

As I got older, I was looking for a platform to tell my story and spread this message. Through many months of looking, I discovered the Miss America Teen opportunity. This platform gave me the chance to be an advocate on a local, state and national level. After months of hard work, I was fortunate enough to be crowned Miss Missouri’s Teen in 2023.  

During my year as Miss Missouri’s Teen, I travelled across the state to share this message, encouraged others to respect firearms and, at the same time, talked about the positive impact that safe enjoyment of the shooting sports has had on my life.  

During one appearance at a private school close to St. Louis, I was introduced to a class of young women as a competitive trap shooter. It was incredible to see those girls’ faces when they realized what trap shooting was and that someone like me — wearing a sash and a crown — could shoot clay targets with a shotgun. It gave me a huge sense of pride letting these young ladies know that this sport is not just for men, and show them they can break barriers like anyone else.  

Another fond memory that was a highlight of my reign was when I walked into the Miss America’s Teen interview and talked about my time in, and enjoyment of, trap shooting. Needless to say, the judges were taken back — I guess they don’t get a lot of shooting sports enthusiasts in front of them. But it was a great opportunity to educate them about a sport I loved, while also sharing my passion for emphasizing gun safety. 

Throughout the year, I was fortunate enough to be able to partner with organizations like Bass Pro Shops and the Missouri Department of Conservation to do safety seminars, group presentations and even walk young hunters and shooters through a gun safety class.  I was also able to form a partnership with Project ChildSafe, a program of NSSF, The Firearm Industry Trade Association, which provides educational tools and resources that I utilized in several classrooms to educate kids on the importance of firearm safety and what they should do if they or a friend ever find a gun. I tell them to “Stop, don’t touch it, get away and tell an adult.” I let parents know about cable gun locks, lock boxes and gun safes. 

As a trap shooter, firearm safety has been ingrained in me from a young age. This sport has taught me so much and continues to make an impact on my life. That is why I do what I do. I’m constantly advocating and spreading awareness about recreational shooting, yes to have fun, but more importantly, doing it in a safe manner.  

That’s also why I’m proud to celebrate NSSF’s Gun Storage Check Week (Sept. 1-7) during National Suicide Prevention Month to promote secure storage practices. Through safe practices, encouraging new participation and showcasing the sport’s diverse activities, these awareness campaigns help ensure the safe enjoyment and future of shooting sports for generations to come. 

Gracyn Rouse was crowned Miss Missouri’s Teen 2023 when she was 16. She spent that year advocating for firearm safety and the proper securement of firearms. She plans to attend the University of Missouri and obtain a Bachelor of Science in Biology. From there, she hopes to attend medical school and pursue a career in Emergency Medicine.

By: Ryan Price
Program Operations team at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)

Back when I worked in a firearms setting, before I joined the staff team at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, I didn’t realize that suicide prevention, to a great extent, is a matter of time and distance. What that means is that, according to scientific research into suicide prevention, putting time and distance between a person who is thinking of suicide and the method they are thinking of using to end their life can be lifesaving.

When someone dies by suicide, the circumstances are complex. But something that every firearm- owning household can do is to implement a strategy for increasing the time it takes to access a firearm. Why?

Most firearm deaths are suicides. I didn’t know this when I worked for an FFL (Federal Firearms License holder) in a firearms retail setting for several years. Nobody did – because we weren’t talking about it at the time. Things are different now and more firearm owners are aware that over the past 20 years, about 60 percent of all firearm deaths in the U.S were suicides.

Most people who survive a suicide attempt do not go on to die by suicide. About 90 percent of people who survive a suicide attempt ultimately reach the help they need. When a firearm is involved, however, it’s almost always lethal. If someone is thinking about using a firearm to take their life and they don’t have the ability to access it during a time of crisis, they are unlikely to attempt suicide in another way.

Putting time and distance between people and firearms is an important action step for every firearm owner, so here are some considerations:

1. Firearms should be stored securely when not in use. Remember – the more time you can put between a person who might be at risk for suicide and a firearm the better.

2. Three steps to keep your home safe from firearm suicide: Lock, Limit and Temporarily remove.

Lock: When firearms are not in use, they should be locked and unloaded. Ammunition should be locked in a separate location.

Limit: Consider taking steps to limit access to firearms, such as changing safe combinations, changing locks or giving the keys or combination to a locking device to a trusted person.

Temporarily remove firearms from the home if someone is at risk — and trust your gut about that, if someone in your home isn’t acting like themselves. It’s important to be aware of your state’s firearm transfer laws when storing them outside the home. According to a recent Harris Poll, almost every adult in the U.S (96%) would act if someone close to them was thinking about suicide and about 80% of adults in the U.S are eager to learn how to help someone who may be suicidal. So please take action today, by learning more from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention about how you can help someone who may be suicidal: visit afsp.org/firearms.

Ryan Price is the Director of Special Projects on the Program Operations team at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Ryan primarily works on firearms suicide prevention and suicide prevention in corrections systems.

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: Julie Golob
World Champion, Veteran and Author

It’s National Shooting Sports Month! Whether you’re celebrating it with a trip to the range as a family or sharing target-shooting sports with new shooters, brushing up on rules and etiquette will make the excursion fun for everyone. Here are 6 things to consider before you hit the range: 

1. Make sure everyone brushes up on firearm safety rules. Knowing and understanding the fundamentals of firearm safety before you even head to the range helps ensure everyone has a safe and fun time. If you’re bringing younger kids to the range, make sure that they understand the range isn’t a playground and there are rules that cannot be broken. You’ll also want to ensure someone in your party monitors kids at all times so that they don’t venture past the firing line or climb berms. 
2. Come prepared with everything you need — including hearing and eye protection, firearms, ammunition and targets. Planning and packing ahead of time will make your range session more efficient and productive. Having a dedicated range bag is helpful. 
3. Wear/use appropriate eye and ear protection. Have eye and ear protection easy to access and ready to go so that as soon as you arrive, you can put it on. This way those who are already shooting don’t have to stop to wait for you to gear up. Eye and ear protection should be worn on the range at all times – whether you’re on the firing line or not. 
4. Be respectful of other shooters. If you’re shooting indoors in a shooting lane, make sure everyone in your group doesn’t interfere with shooters in other lanes. On outdoor ranges, you may need to wait for a bay to open up or if you’re able to shoot on the same firing line, be considerate and coordinate with fellow shooters on when to call the range safe and clear before heading down to inspect or repair targets. 
5. Clean up. Dispose of any targets and trash you see on the range and police up your brass. Make the range a better place for the next group of shooters. 
6. Practice good shooting hygiene. After you’re finished handling guns, shooting gear and ammo and you’ve picked up your trash and brass, wash up. It’s best to wash both your hands and face with cold, soapy water. You can also purchase handwipes specifically formulated to help remove lead and other contaminants from the skin. 

For additional information, you can check out the National Shooting Sports Foundation’s Range Safety and Etiquette Video. And finally, one important point for after the range – remember to store all firearms securely in vehicles and at home when they are not in use. Secure storage is the #1 way to help prevent firearm accidents, thefts and misuse.   

Julie Golob is a multi-time world and national shooting champion, an experienced shooting instructor, woman of the outdoors, proud US Army veteran, published author, and a wife and mom (her two most treasured titles). She credits much of her success to a desire for to balance in life. Family is always first, and her personal motto in life is “work hard, share knowledge and showcase a winning spirit through a blend of kindness, ferocity and humility.” 

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.

In 2021, at least 5.4 million people purchased a firearm for the first time—and more than 33 percent of those new gun owners were women. This brought in over 1 million women to gun ownership last year.

It’s exciting to see so many women exercising their Second Amendment right to own a firearm, whether it’s for personal security or to enjoy some of the dozens of shooting sports available to them and to be part of the supportive firearm-owning community.

To welcome and celebrate these new women gun owners, we’ve gathered some of most recognized women in the shooting sports industry to share their insights as leaders for women in shooting sports and provide their best tips and advice on how to safely handle and secure their firearms. Read what they have to say about the role women and mothers can play in helping to ensure firearm safety in the home.

(When it comes to safety, everyone can use a refresher—seasoned owners should read on too!)

 

Barbara Baird, Women’s Outdoor News

“Women should ask themselves these questions when buying a firearm:

    How will I use it (leave at home, open carry, concealed carry)?

   How will I safely and securely store it?

   Do I need training?

Don’t bring home a gun and try to figure out the answers later. Have a plan in place and execute.”

 

 

Kia Glenn, National African American Gun Association

“You don’t need to be a gun expert or champion shooter to know the ins and outs of firearm safety. As you begin your journey of owning a firearm, do your research and equip yourself with information to achieve the goals you set for yourself. The firearm industry offers a wealth of resources from programs like Project ChildSafe, which make it easy to learn more. You can also join groups and associations full of individuals that have similar backgrounds and experiences to ensure you receive the proper firearms education and training.”

 

 

Kristy Titus, Pursue the Wild

“Choose firearm storage options that suit your individual needs. There is a plethora of options to securely store your firearm that best fit your, and your family’s, lifestyle. If you’re not sure where to start, check out this video I made explaining the different types of storage methods and how to use them.

 

 

 

 

Lexi Lagan, USA Shooting and US Olympian

“When it comes to safe firearm handling and training, practice doesn’t make perfect, but it does make improvement. Practice safe firearm handling daily to improve your skills. Take courses from certified instructors. Even if you think you have learned everything there is to know, classes help reinforce the critical basics of safe firearm handling. When you can handle firearms safely, training with your firearm becomes more comfortable and you will want to train more often, which leads to further improvement!”

 

 

 

Ashley Hlebinsky, The Gun Code

“Knowledge is the key to responsible firearms ownership. From researching how to safely handle your firearm, to relaying that information to the important people in your life and adding on training to build confidence, every step taken will help ensure safety in the home.

Also, know that you are not alone—you’re now part of a long history of women who have owned firearms. Feel empowered to continue that heritage and legacy into the future!”

 

 

 

Helen Moore, Armed Women of America

“Practice at least 10 minutes a day. Dry firing your firearm along with utilizing tools that ensure the firearm cannot be loaded to increase safety is a great way to improve your muscle memory skills, without having to go to a range. Practice gaining your sight picture, drawing from your holster and magazine changes to increase your understanding of your firearm.”

 

 

 

Orin Julie, Shooting Instructor, Content Creator and IPSC Shooter

“A first step into gun ownership is understanding and knowing the basic rules of gun safety. Build your foundation of safety with the following: keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire, treat every gun as if it were loaded, and know your target and what’s beyond it.”

 

 

 

 

—

New and prospective gun owners can visit the Project ChildSafe resource library for additional safety information and educational materials, including downloadable resources. Parents can also find tailored resources for talking to kids about firearm safety, as well as teen mental health-specific information by visiting our Parents and Gun Owners page.