Firearm Safety

Firearms are a leading method of suicide in the United States. Every step we can take to put barriers or “speed bumps” between someone’s thoughts of suicide and access to means to end their life reduces the risk of a suicide attempt.  This page offers strategies to incorporate suicide prevention into firearm safety practices.

For Retailers and Ranges

Each year in the United States, the number of people who die by suicide using a firearm is substantially greater than those who die of firearm-involved homicide. Firearms retailers and ranges are uniquely positioned to play a significant role in incorporating suicide prevention into their existing firearm safety processes and efforts. Here are some steps you can take to help safeguard your customers and communities:

• Educate yourself and your staff about the warning signs for suicide, how to have a conversation with someone you are concerned about, and available resources.

• Host a suicide prevention training for your staff. Visit the Community Resources page to find organizations who may offer trainings in your area.

• Incorporate suicide prevention education in firearm safety courses. Download slides and talking points COMING SOON.

• Display suicide prevention materials, such as a poster or brochures, on your premises or include them with each new firearm purchase. Download free materials COMING SOON.

• Losing someone to suicide involves complicated grief and it can be helpful to prepare how to support your staff, organization, and community in the event of such a loss. Learn about protocols and procedures you can put in place if one of your members or customers dies by suicide. Order the AFSP-NSSF postvention guide for gun ranges here. opens in a new window