DURHAM, NC – As the holiday season approaches, the Durham County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) strongly encourages all firearm owners to ensure every firearm in their home is securely stored. This crucial step is vital to preventing accidents and tragedies, not just during the holidays when visitors are frequent, but always.
Tragically, firearm-related deaths are now the leading cause of death for children and teens in the United States; most of these deaths are preventable. More than 4 million children live in firearm-owning households, many with unsecured, loaded weapons.
What is "Family Fire"?
In 2024, the Brady Foundation launched the “End Family Fire” Campaign to raise awareness of this critical risk. Family fire refers to a shooting that results from someone misusing an unsecured firearm in the home. Unintentional shootings, firearm suicide, and many intentional shootings are all forms of family fire.
In direct response to recent incidents in our community, where children have discharged a weapon, the DCSO is dedicated to helping firearm owners make their homes a safer place, especially as families gather for the holidays.
“Locking your unloaded firearm and storing the ammo in a separate location is an effective way to prevent access and use by children and teens,” said Sheriff Clarence F. Birkhead. “When securing all firearms with a trigger lock, lock box, or in a safe, you add multiple layers of protection for everyone who lives in or visits your home. Secure your firearms for the holidays and make it a habit year-round.”
Safeguard Your Home: Pick Up a Free Gun Lock
DCSO is offering free firearm cable locks to Durham County residents while supplies last.
Gun Lock Pickup Details:
- Location: Durham County Courthouse, Main Lobby
- Address: 510 S. Dillard St., Durham, NC 27701
- Availability: During regular business hours, Monday – Friday
For more information and resources on Safe Storage in North Carolina, you can also visit the State Department of Public Safety’s NC S.A.F.E. website.
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