State launches safe firearms storage campaign
Guns safes sit against a wall at a gun shop. A new campaign in North Carolina aims to raise awareness about safe firearms storage. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)
North Carolina has launched an initiative to raise awareness about safe firearm storage.
The North Carolina Department of Public Safety (NCDPS) on Thursday launched the NC S.A.F.E. public awareness campaign. The acronym “SAFE” stands for Secure All Firearms Effectively. The initiative will encompass digital, TV, and radio advertising, as well as a new website featuring information about best practices for safe firearm storage.
The campaign is a response to the skyrocketing number of gun-related deaths and injuries among young people, along with a stark rise in firearm thefts.
According to an NCDPS news release, child and youth deaths from firearm-related injuries rose 231 percent from 2012 through 2021. Guns have now become the leading cause of death among this age group. And nearly 380,000 guns are stolen every year, with many taken from vehicles.
Officials believe collective adoption of proper firearm storage procedures can help turn those numbers around.
The NC S.A.F.E website features information on how to safely store firearms, a safety checklist, and guidance for parents.
Governor Roy Cooper will kick off a week of safe storage events on June 5.
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