Safety Devices for Firearms

Safety devices are the cornerstone of safe firearm storage, which is known to reduce pediatric injuries and death from firearms. Multiple types of safety devices exist including cable locks, gun safes, or lock boxes. More recently, electronic systems have been developed that directly secure a firearm without an external device and are often referred to as “smart guns.” Approved safety devices and their compatibility with a given firearm are catalogued through a database maintained by the California Attorney General’s Office. Recent public health studies have indicated communities have preferences for what types of firearm safety devices they most prefer and are likely to use, which include gun safes or biometric gun safes that require the “fingerprint” of an authorized user. Additionally, studies have indicated educational material for safety devices is readily available and community events can effectively distribute safety devices and improve their use.