Local health districts share firearm safety rips for National Gun Violence Awareness Day

June 5, 2026 - 23:06

In recognition of National Gun Violence Awareness Day on June 5, public health officials from the Richmond and Henrico Health Districts have released a set of practical safety recommendations. The guidance aims to reduce accidental injuries and deaths by promoting responsible storage and handling of firearms.

The health districts emphasize that safe storage is the most effective way to prevent unauthorized access. They recommend keeping all firearms unloaded and locked in a secure cabinet, safe, or gun vault. Ammunition should be stored separately in a locked location. For households with children or individuals at risk of self-harm, using trigger locks or cable locks adds an extra layer of protection.

Officials also urge gun owners to talk openly with family members about firearm safety. This includes teaching children that if they find a gun, they should not touch it and should immediately tell an adult. The districts note that these conversations can help normalize safe practices without infringing on legal gun ownership.

The awareness day, marked by the wearing of orange, serves as a reminder that firearm injuries are a preventable public health issue. By following these simple steps, the health districts hope to reduce the number of tragedies that occur each year due to unsecured weapons.