Firearm Safety
Firearm Safety Information
As required by Michigan state law, public schools provide families with important information about safe firearm storage practices to help protect children in our community.
Download a flyer on firearm safety or read here:
Michigan’s Secure Storage Law
Secure Storage Requirements
If a firearm is unattended where a minor (under 18) is or is likely to be present, it must be:
- Secured in a locked box or container, and/or
- Unloaded and secured with a locking device, like a trigger or cable lock, that would prevent anyone from using it.
This law applies whether firearms are in your own home or brought to another location.
Firearms in Vehicles
While traveling with a firearm in a vehicle, the vehicle must be locked when not in use, and the firearm must be secured and either locked in a container or unloaded and disabled with a trigger or cable lock if a child is present or likely to be present in the vehicle or destination.
Importance and Benefits of Secure Storage to Help Keep Children Safe
Legal ownership of firearms is a Constitutional right. This comes with important safety responsibilities to prevent thefts, firearm homicide, firearm suicide, and unintentional firearm injuries, including among children. Simply hiding unlocked firearms or keeping them on a shelf out of reach does not guarantee or equal secure storage under Michigan law. Secure storage reduces the risk of unintentional injuries among children and theft of guns. When access to guns is reduced, the overall suicide rate drops.
For more information and a full list of other resources, including Project ChildSafe, visit the MDHHS firearm secure storage page at MDHHS Secure Storage.
University of Michigan Family Guide to Firearm Home Safety
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (Call or text 988)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Does the safe storage law apply to all firearms or only certain types?
A: This law applies to all firearms, including handguns, rifles and shotguns. If the firearm is not under immediate control of the possessor, on premises where a minor is likely to be present, it must be securely stored to prevent access by minors.
Q: Does this law apply to both loaded and unloaded firearms?
A: Yes. Both loaded and unloaded firearms must be properly secured to prevent unauthorized access by minors. All firearms should be treated as if they are loaded. Even unloaded firearms can pose a threat to minors if not securely stored.
Q: Do I need to use a specific type of lock or safe to comply?
A: Yes. A “locked box or container" means a secure container, specifically designed for the storage of firearms, that is fully enclosed and locked by a padlock, key lock, combination lock, or similar locking device to which a minor does not possess the key or combination or otherwise have access. "Locking device" means a trigger lock, cable lock or similar lock that prevents a firearm from discharging. If a locking device is used, the firearm must be unloaded and rendered inoperable.
Q: What should I do if I suspect another child might have access to a firearm that isn’t being securely stored, and therefore in violation of the law?
A: Contact your local law enforcement agency. Students can also report potential violations on school property to Michigan’s OK2SAY program at OK2SAY@mi.gov, text 652729 (OK2SAY), or call 855-565-2729 (8-555-OK2SAY). Call 9-1-1 for any emergency.
Q: Where can I get a lock box/container or a locking device?
A: Firearm safety kits provided by Project Childsafe are free. These kits contain a cable lock and an informational brochure. Some local police departments, local health departments or other community organizations may provide free or low-cost firearm locks or storage devices. Check with your local law enforcement agency for more information. Please refer to the “free and reduced cost firearm locking devices” section of this notice for more information on where to find these items in your community.
Q: As a non-gun owner, how can I make sure that children and teenagers stay safe when they visit homes with firearms?
A: Even people who don’t own firearms can take proactive steps to ensure the safety of youth by teaching children about the danger of touching firearms, asking hosts if firearms are present, verifying if they are securely stored, and sharing safety resources. Additional resources are available at Be SMART.
Q: Where does this law apply?
A: The law states “premises” - whether it is the property of the person possessing the firearm, someone else’s property, or anywhere children may be present. If the firearm is left unattended by the possessor, including in a vehicle, it must be securely stored to prevent access by minors. These requirements apply across all of Michigan.