Gun retailers as storage partners for suicide prevention: what barriers need to be overcome?

Abstract

IntroductionSafe storage of guns outside the household while someone is at risk for suicide is important for suicide prevention. Some gun retailers offer temporary firearm storage as a community resource. Others may be willing if perceived barriers can be addressed.MethodsWe invited all gun retailers in eight Mountain West states to respond to a questionnaire about the barriers they perceive in offering temporary, voluntary gun storage for community members.ResultsNinety-five retailers responded (25% response rate). Fifty-eight percent believed federal laws make it harder to store guns and 25% perceived state laws to be obstacles. Over 60% cited legal liability in storing and returning guns as barriers. Other important barriers included cost, space and logistical issues of drop off and pick up.ConclusionsStrategies to reduce legal and other barriers will need to be addressed to better engage gun retailers as a community resource for safe gun storage.