(UNDATED) As hunting season gets underway, Wisconsin officials are reminding families that firearm safety is about more than handling a gun — it’s also about how it’s stored.
The Wisconsin Office of Children’s Mental Health says safe storage can help prevent tragedies, especially among children and teens. Research shows 8 out of 10 kids who die by firearm suicide got the gun from a family member, and most school shooting weapons come from home too.
“Guns are the leading cause of death for children and teens,” said Linda Hall, who directs the state’s Office of Children’s Mental Health. “We must all take steps to protect Wisconsin’s children.”
The agency encourages families to use gun safes or locks — many of which are available free through health care providers — or consider storing firearms off-site. It’s also asking policymakers to strengthen child access prevention laws that hold adults accountable if a child gains access to a firearm.
Health care workers can play a role too, by screening young patients for suicide risk and helping families create safety plans. Programs like Counseling on Access to Lethal Means, or CALM, train professionals to talk about gun safety and reduce the risk of impulsive self-harm. Children’s Wisconsin and Aspirus Health have already trained hundreds of staff across the state.
Hall noted that Nov. 22 marks International Survivor of Suicide Loss Day. She said it’s a reminder that taking small steps — like locking up firearms — can save lives and spare other families from heartbreak.
