Promoting Community Safety: The Crucial Role of Responsible Firearm Storage

A sobering reality our community faces is the impact of firearm-related incidents, particularly those arising from unsafe storage practices. When guns are not securely stored many dangers arise: accidental harm from a child “playing” with a loaded weapon; the ease of access for a person struggling with mental illness; and the risk of the weapon being stolen and used for criminal purposes. These are not just threats, but reality in Minnesota. In October, a four-year-old in Martin County wounded his younger sibling after finding an unsecured gun in the seat of a car. Each year approximately 351 people in Minnesota die by firearm suicide, with the availability and effectiveness of firearms increasing the risk of a fatal outcome. Equally concerning is the alarming rate at which guns are stolen from vehicles. The FBI reports that approximately one gun is stolen from a car every 15 minutes on average in cities across the country. In the first two quarters of 2022, the St. Paul Police Department identified that 52% of stolen guns recovered from crimes were stolen from motor vehicles. 

Since May 2023, it is also the law in St. Paul that guns must be securely stored following the amendment of Chapter 225 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code. Secure storage measures, such as gun safes and gun locks, can play a crucial role in preventing unauthorized access to firearms and ensuring compliance with the city ordinance. By practicing and encouraging responsible storage and fostering a culture of awareness within our community, we can collectively contribute to reducing the incidence of firearm-related tragedies and make our homes and streets safer for everyone. To receive a free gun lock or more information on this issue, please email [email protected]. Secure firearm storage saves lives.