Alabamians have a proud legacy of hunting, sport shooting, and safeguarding their homes. Responsible firearm ownership keeps that tradition strong— and it saves lives. Across our state, nearly three out of every four gun-related deaths are suicides, and unintentional shootings send dozens of children and adults to emergency rooms each year. 

Yet research shows that storing firearms locked, unloaded, and separate from ammunition can reduce accidental injuries by as much as 85 percent and lower suicide risk among teens and veterans.  The Medical Association of the State of Alabama believes safety and rights go hand in hand: smart habits today protect the people we care about tomorrow.

This resource hub offers practical, judgment-free tips to help every gun owner keep family, friends, and visitors safe.
   

     

Safe Storage Basics – The “Triple L” Rule


Locked firearm – use a cable lock, trigger lock, or lockbox.
Locked container or room – gun safe or secured cabinet.
Locked-away ammunition – store ammo separately to slow unauthorized use.

Safely keeping a gun in the car: https://www.usconcealedcarry.com/blog/how-to-keep-your-gun-in-your-car-safely/
Safely travel with firearms: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/transporting-firearms-and-ammunition

Protecting Children & Teens


Talk early, talk often: age-appropriate conversations about curiosity and respect.
Before playdates: model the “ASK” approach—politely ask if guns are present and stored.
Lead by example: let kids watch you lock firearms after use.

More Information on Protecting Kids: https://www.safefirearmsstorage.org/  
 

Everyday Safe-Handling Tips


Always keep muzzle pointed in a safe direction.
Keep finger off the trigger until ready to shoot.
Treat every firearm as if it is loaded.

Maintain firearms regularly; clean only after ensuring they’re unloaded.

Preventing Tragedies


More than 50% of Alabama gun deaths are suicides

Consider storing firearms temporarily off-site during crisis moments. In 2025, Gov. Kay Ivey signed the “Houston/Hunter Act," a voluntary firearm storage law focused on suicide prevention. This law allows individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts to temporarily surrender their firearms to licensed gun dealers participating in the "SAFER Together" program. 

988 is the national three-digit phone number for all mental health, substance use, and suicide crises.