Healthcare Best Practices, News, Suicide Reduction Strategies

Safe Gun Storage Check Week: Helping Veterans in Your Community

Gun Storage Check Week, observed June 1 – 7, 2025, is an opportunity to focus on an important but often overlooked part of suicide prevention: safe firearm storage. Many Veterans own firearms as a part of their daily lives, reflecting their training, interests, and identity. However, when someone is experiencing a mental health crisis, easy access to a firearm can increase the risk of suicide. Communities have a role to play by promoting conversations about secure storage and encouraging small, practical steps that can save lives. This week reminds us that safe storage is not just about preventing accidents—it is a critical tool to protect Veterans and others at risk.

Veterans and Firearm Access

Military service often includes extensive training with firearms. As a result, many Veterans own firearms after their service, viewing them as an important part of their identity, hobbies, or household security. However, this familiarity and access, combined with higher rates of post-service stress and mental health challenges, places Veterans at a greater risk. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, firearms were involved in 73.5% of Veteran suicide deaths in 2022, compared to 52.2% of non-Veteran suicides. The combination of familiarity, comfort, and ready access makes conversations around safe storage especially important for those working to support Veterans in their lives.

Window of Opportunity

Research shows that many suicide attempts happen impulsively and often within minutes of the decision. The method a person chooses plays a major role in whether they survive a crisis. In some emergencies like an opioid overdose, death is not immediate, and there is often a short window when others can intervene. If someone recognizes an overdose in time, they can use medications such as naloxone (Narcan) to reverse the effects and prevent a fatality. Firearms are different. When someone in crisis has quick access to a firearm, most attempts are immediately fatal, leaving little or no chance for rescue.

Safe firearm storage can create a critical delay, much like the intervention window that exists in other emergencies. Locks, safes, and other barriers that slow access give valuable time for second thoughts, interruptions, or help-seeking before tragedy occurs. Talking openly about safe storage with Veterans in your community can help create that buffer. Even a few extra minutes can save a life.

Safe storage can be simple and tailored to individual needs. Options include:

  • Cable Locks – Inexpensive and easy to install, preventing accidental discharge and quick access.
  • Lock Boxes and Safes – Allow quick owner access but delay unauthorized or impulsive use. Options include key, code, or biometric locks.
  • Offsite Storage – Temporary offsite storage can be a practical option during periods of increased risk, provided legal firearm transfer laws are followed.

How You Can Help Veterans in Your Community

Family members, healthcare providers, Veteran organizations, faith groups, and friends can all play a role in preventing suicide. Here are some ways to support Veterans:

  • Start Conversations Early: Discuss safe firearm storage during health checkups, family gatherings, or community events, without judgment or pressure.
  • Offer Resources: Share links to free cable lock programs, VA resources, or trusted groups like Project ChildSafe.
  • Normalize Safe Storage: Emphasize that reviewing and updating storage is a normal, responsible step—especially when life circumstances change.
  • Encourage Periodic Check-Ins: Suggest making storage reviews an annual tradition, similar to changing smoke alarm batteries or updating emergency contacts.

Where to Find Help and Information

Many organizations offering practical resources for Veterans and their families.

Veterans or anyone concerned about suicide risk can also reach out to the Veterans Crisis Line by calling 988 and pressing 1 for confidential help, 24/7.

Every Step Matters

Checking in on safe storage practices is a simple but powerful way to protect Veterans and their families. Gun Storage Check Week reminds us that Veterans, families, communities, and providers can work together to help save lives.

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