Program Area: Suicide Prevention & Harm Reduction
Gun Safety and Secure Storage
Keep yourself, your friends, and family safe.
Gun Safety
Safe Communities launched a replication of New Hampshire’s Project Connect Gun Shop Project in 2016.
The project was featured in a Wisconsin State Journal article by David Wahlberg: “The Gun Shop Project is an educational campaign involving posters, brochures and tip sheets discussing proper handling and storage of guns and advice on preventing their use in suicides.
signs to recognize
- Having no knowledge about guns
- Showing no interest in learning about guns
- Not caring what kind of gun they purchase
- Mentioning a recent crisis
- Avoiding eye contact
- Appearing distraught
our work in action
Gun Shop Project Success
In 2017, we made another round of visits to all Dane County gun shops to replenish supplies and gather feedback about their experience as Gun Shop Project participants. Jean Papalia, our Gun Shop Project coordinator, visited 15 shops and secured commitment to continue with the program from the majority.
We have also expanded partnerships with two gun shops to include provision of safe gun storage for people experiencing a suicidal crisis, and development of guides and “contracts” to facilitate the process of safe storage.
Chuck Lovelace, owner of Essential Shooting Supplies and champion of The Gun Shop Project, received a BeSafe Award on October 19th, 2017 to recognize his unique contribution to suicide prevention.
Looking for Safe Storage of Guns During a Crisis? Contact Participating Firearms Retailers
Resources and Links
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