Lethal Means Safety
How to Keep Yourself and Loved Ones Safe
While some people may struggle with suicidal thoughts for weeks, months, or even years, many attempts happen shortly after a crisis. That’s why it’s important to remove anything from someone’s environment that they could use to harm themselves.
In North Dakota, firearms are the most common way people die by suicide.
Why Is Secure Storage Important?
The secure storage of firearms protects young people from both accidental and intentional gun violence. Research has found that:
- More than 75% of firearms used in youth suicide attempts and unintentional firearm injuries came from the residence of the victim, a relative, or a friend.
- 3 out of 4 children know the location of their parent’s gun in the home. 1 in 3 of these children admitted to handling the gun unsupervised.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, hundreds of child and adolescent deaths by firearm could be prevented each year with safe and secure storage practices.
Firearm Storage & Safety Devices
If you need firearm secure storage or safety devices, ND THRIVES is here to help! We offer cable locks, biometric trigger locks, and biometric cabinet locks, depending on availability. Contact us at [email protected] to learn more!
Cable Lock Instructions
Biometric Trigger Lock Instructions
Biometric Cabinet Lock Instructions
Approaching Conversations Around Firearm Safety
Be direct, empathetic, and respectful.
Lead with shared goals: keeping kids safe! Every parent wants their child to be safe at home, and understanding this shared goal can build trust.
Explain how easy access to lethal means increases youth suicide risk.
Discuss available options for safe storage of lethal means, and explore barriers to various options.
Other Ways to Stay Safe
Prescription medication and pills: These can be given to a parent, caregiver, or trusted person to lock up safely or brought to a pharmacy or police department for disposal.
Ropes: Remove these from the home during periods of increased risk.
Sharp objects (razors, knives, scissors, etc.): Remove from the daily environment. Ask for help from family members to supervise use of any of these sharp objects.