Why It Matters
Most suicidal crises are temporary, but access to lethal means can turn a moment of crisis into a tragedy. Taking simple steps to safely store firearms, medications and other potentially dangerous items can create time, reduce risk and save lives.
Lethal means safety is not about removing rights or making assumptions about someone. It's about protecting the people we care about during difficult moments and helping them stay safe until the crisis passes.
Firearm Safety
Safe firearm storage can help prevent accidental injuries, unauthorized access by children and teens, and suicide during periods of crisis.
- Store firearms unloaded when not in use.
- Use gun locks, lock boxes or safes.
- Store ammunition separately.
- Consider temporary off-site storage when someone is experiencing a mental health crisis.
Get free firearm safety resources:
Medication Safety
Many households contain prescription and over-the-counter medications that can be dangerous if misused.
- Store medications in a locked or secure location.
- Monitor quantities regularly.
- Dispose of unused medications through a take-back program.
- Never share prescription medications.
Find a medication drop-off location near you and learn more about the Take Back Program.
Alcohol Safety
Alcohol is one of the most commonly used substances among youth. Easy access to alcohol at home can increase the risk of underage drinking, impaired decision-making, injuries and other harmful outcomes.
- Store alcohol in a secure location and monitor quantities.
- Avoid providing alcohol to anyone under the legal drinking age.
- Talk with children and teens about the risks of alcohol use.
- Set clear family expectations and consequences regarding underage drinking.
- Be aware of alcohol in refrigerators, coolers, garages and other storage areas.
- Model responsible behaviors and healthy decision-making.
Helpful Resources:
Additional Resources
Learn practical strategies for firearm and medication safety, conversations with children and simple steps that can help prevent tragedies before they happen.
Learn why secure storage is important, firearm storage and safety devices and how to approach conversations around firearms.
Learn how to safely use firearm storage devices and find North Dakota resources focused on firearm suicide prevention and safety.
Firearms are involved in over 50% of all suicides in the US, and AFSP is leading the effort to educate firearm owners to prevent this leading cause of death.