In North Carolina, firearms have become the leading cause of death among children and youth. Unsecured firearms pose daily risks to children in the state, leading to injuries, deaths, and crimes.
The third annual NC S.A.F.E. (Secure All Firearms Effectively) Action Week will bring together community leaders, parents, law enforcement officials, and health professionals from across the state to address the crisis of improperly secured firearms and firearm-related child deaths. During NC S.A.F.E. Action Week, free gun locks will be distributed, informational events will be held, and families affected by gun violence will share their stories. Representatives from the NC S.A.F.E. initiative will be available at each event to discuss the goals of the initiatives and emphasize the importance of safe firearm storage in North Carolina.
Events during this week include a community day at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist in Winston-Salem on June 1st, where safety equipment like bike helmets and life jackets will also be provided. On June 2nd, a TSA press conference at Charlotte Douglas International Airport will focus on promoting firearm safety at airports. The Asheville Police Department will host an awareness event on June 3rd at Sportsman’s Warehouse in Tanger Outlets Mall.
Other activities include a community day organized by Scotland County Memorial Library in Laurinburg on June 4th and various festivals celebrating local culture throughout the week. These include Old Fort’s Annual Trails & Trains Festival from June 5th to 7th and Plymouth’s Black Bear Festival from June 6th to 7th.
A press conference with state and local authorities is scheduled for June 6th in Elizabeth City to present gun locks to the police chief. Additional events such as Marion’s Livermush Festival on June 7th offer free children’s activities and crafts vendors.
NC S.A.F.E.’s efforts are aimed at increasing awareness about secure firearm storage practices through these diverse events across North Carolina.
