SECURE FIREARM AND MEDICATION COMMITTEES

The Secure Firearm and Medication Committee, a subcommittee of the Medina County Coalition for Suicide Prevention, is dedicated to reducing suicide risk by encouraging the safe and responsible storage of firearms and medications. Through education, collaboration, and community partnerships, we work to protect lives and promote well-being across Medina County.

Safely storing firearms and medications is one of the most effective ways to prevent suicide and protect the people we care about. Our committee provides free cable locks and lock boxes, shares practical safety information, and helps individuals plan ahead during times of crisis. Together, these efforts support families and strengthen safety throughout the community.

Keeping Your Family and Community Safe

Safely storing firearms and medications is one of the most effective ways to prevent suicide and protect the people we care about. The following tips provide practical steps you can take at home, as well as guidance for talking with children, teens, and others about safety.

Safety at Home

Firearms should always be:

  • Stored unloaded

  • Locked in a safe, lockbox, or with a cable lock

  • Separated from ammunition

  • Hidden from plain sight, especially in vehicles or public spaces

Tip: Talk with your family about these steps so everyone knows how to stay safe.

Talking About Gun Safety

Conversations about firearm safety should be as normal as discussing seatbelts or allergies.

  • Ask other parents about safe storage before playdates.

  • Share your own practices to set an example.

  • Keep the focus on safety, not judgment.

Protecting Children and Teens

Children are naturally curious, and teens may act impulsively. Unsecured firearms can turn a single moment into a lifelong tragedy.

  • Teach kids the rule: Stop, don’t touch, leave the area, and tell an adult if they see a firearm.

  • Reassure children they won’t get in trouble for reporting.

  • For teens, make conversations about safety and mental health ongoing, letting them know it’s okay to ask questions and talk about difficult feelings.

  • Model safe storage practices and explain why safety matters.

Mental Health and Firearm Safety

Mental health can change over time due to stress, grief, illness, or major life events. Planning ahead helps reduce risk during vulnerable times. Safe storage allows for:

  • More time to cool down

  • Opportunities to seek help

  • A safeguard against impulsive decisions

Remember: Securing firearms is about protection and care.

Planning for Emergencies and the Future

Emergencies like burglaries, fires, or natural disasters can happen anytime. Include firearm storage and handling in your Life Plan.

Think about:

  • Who should inherit your firearms?

  • Would you prefer to sell, donate, or destroy them if you can’t keep them?

Writing down these decisions ensures your wishes are honored.

Storage Devices Available

  • Gun locks

  • Lock boxes

  • Medication lock bags

Limited free devices are available to those in need through our coalition and community partners. Using these tools makes it simple to put safety first and protect the people you care about. For more information, contact Taylor Volovar at tvolovar@alternativepaths.org or call (330) 725-9195 ext. 371.