The Safer Homes Collaborative is a joint effort between the gun owning community and the suicide prevention community to raise awareness that suicide can be prevented through safe gun storage. Firearms are the leading method by which people end their lives in the United States and Missouri. Statistically, more people attempt suicide by overdose or suffocation; however, more people die in a suicide attempt with a firearm. In fact, six out of ten suicide deaths in Missouri are with a firearm.

Research has shown that putting time and distance between the person at risk for suicide and a firearm can save a life. The Safer Homes Collaborative is working to include suicide in the conversations gun owners have about gun safety. We encourage gun owners to adopt an 11th Commandment to the 10 Commandments of Firearm Safety: Consider temporary off-site storage of firearms if you or a family member may be suicidal or going through an emotional crisis (e.g. break-up, job loss, or legal issues) or a significant change in behavior (violence, depression, heavy drinking/drug use, sleeplessness). Temporarily storing guns away from home may save a life. Friends and family, gun shops, shooting ranges, or the police may provide safe storage until the situation improves.

If you or someone you know is at risk for suicide please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). For more information on the Safer Homes Collaborative check out our website at SaferHomesCollaborative.org, email us at info@saferhomescollaborative.org or call 314-516-8454.