Ramsey County officials emphasize the importance of safe gun storage as summer approaches, reminding residents that “safe gun storage saves lives.” Commissioner Tara Jebens-Singh highlights the critical need for gun locks, sharing personal stories about suicide victims who accessed unsecured firearms. With nearly 10,000 gun locks distributed through the county’s Gun Safety Initiative since 2016, primary leader John Choi declares the ongoing campaign crucial for preventing tragedies linked to firearm access.
Statistics show that households securing their firearms can reduce the risk of unintentional injuries by 85%. Recently, a 3-year-old boy’s hospitalization after accidentally shooting himself underscores the urgency of this message. Leaders also introduce Minnesota’s “Extreme Risk Protection Order” law, designed to temporarily remove firearms from individuals at risk of self-harm. Advocacy groups stress the importance of these initiatives, urging gun owners to utilize available resources, including the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Read full story at www.twincities.com
