Gun Safety

Firearms are the leading cause of death in children and teens in both the U.S. and Bexar County.

Many unintentional firearm-related injuries and deaths happen because guns aren’t stored safely. This results in preventable gun-related suicides, unintentional discharges and firearm theft.

GunSafety4Bexar

Bexar County and University Health are saving lives through our partnership, GunSafety4Bexar. Together, we can prevent many tragedies by promoting safe gun storage and distributing free gun locks.

Free Gun Locks

Find a free gun lock distribution location near you in the list below. Call ahead to ensure availability.

Safe Gun Storage for People Living with Alzheimer's or Dementia

Alzheimer’s disease and dementia cause a diminished ability to think, reason and remember. Nearly one-third of people with dementia exhibit combative behavior over the course of their illness. Caregivers can usually manage aggressive behavior and prevent significant harm. But if a person with Alzheimer's has access to a gun, they and other people in the home may be at risk.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, some people with dementia may perceive threats that don't exist. They may attempt to access a gun to defend themselves. They may unintentionally harm themselves or others in the home. The Alzheimer's Association recommends removing guns from the home completely.

Keep Children Safe from Guns

More than 4 million children in the U.S. live in homes with unlocked and loaded guns. Children as young as 3 years old are strong enough to pull a trigger on a gun. An average of nine children and teens (ages 1-17) are shot every day in firearm-related events – more than 3,000 kids every year.

Gun Safety at Home

Gun owners can reduce the number of children who find guns and shoot themselves or others. Store guns in a lockbox or safe, unloaded and separate from ammunition. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends storing guns outside of the home.

Take the time to talk to your kids about gun safety:

• Explain the difference between real guns and those your children might see on TV or in a video game.
• Teach your kids never to touch a gun and to immediately tell an adult if they see one.
• Talk to your child’s caregivers about their gun storage practices.

Be aware of unlocked guns at neighbors’ and friends’ homes. Before allowing your child in another home, ask the adults: “Is there an unlocked gun in your house?"

Get more gun safety tips here.

Suicide Prevention

Conditions like depression, anxiety and substance abuse increase the risk of suicide. Suicides account for nearly two-thirds of all gun deaths in the United States.

Many people who take their own lives use firearms found in their own homes or in the homes of relatives and friends. Prevent suicides by storing guns locked and unloaded. Lock ammunition in a separate lockbox or safe. Learn more about suicide prevention on our website.

Call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline to speak with someone and get help.

More Resources

• American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: Suicide Risk Factors and Warning Signs

Firearm Suicide in the United States