Thank you for requesting this guide! Here are five simple yet impactful steps you can take to help reduce firearm deaths and injuries.
1. You’ve already taken the first step.
By signing up and reading this, you’ve joined Voices for a Safer Tennessee, a nonpartisan, statewide coalition dedicated to promoting firearm safety and advocating for pragmatic, evidence-based firearm laws. Your commitment to a safer Tennessee begins here, with informed action.
2. Do your kids have playdates? Start the conversation about secure firearm storage.
It can be uncomfortable to bring up, but talking with fellow parents about secure firearm storage before playdates is essential. With firearms currently the leading cause of death for children in Tennessee, it’s a conversation worth having. Just as you would let the hosts know about food allergies or limits you set on video games, ask whether firearms are present and, if so, how they’re stored. Normalizing these conversations can make a real difference in preventing tragedies.
And teach your children what to do if they come across a firearm: Stop, don’t touch, leave the area and tell an adult.
3. Get a FREE cable lock for your firearm.
If you own a firearm or know someone who does, make sure it’s secured. Gun locks are a simple yet effective solution. You can find free gun locks through the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security.
The initiative, which is accompanied by a video campaign, was authorized by the Tennessee General Assembly during the August 2023 Special Session.
The free cable gun locks secure most shotguns, rifles, pistols, and revolvers. The lock works by running through the barrel or action of the firearm preventing it from being fired. To date, 69,500 gun locks have been distributed.
They’re available in every county, and you can easily pick one up here.
4. Make a voting plan.
As a Tennessean, your vote is one of the most powerful tools you have to influence change.
Research the candidates so you can cast an informed vote in the Nov. 5 election.
Also use Safer TN’s voter tool to research the candidates. Take the extra step of making a voting plan. Will you vote early, by mail, or in person? Stay informed, stay active, and help ensure safer communities for Tennessee’s future.
5. Contact your legislators.
Let your local and state legislators know how you feel about firearm safety laws and how you expect them to vote on critical issues. Contacting your representatives is a direct way to influence policy and advocate for stronger firearm safety measures that protect our children.
Here is where we’ve created a guide to help you find yours.
Thank you again for stepping up for a Safer Tennessee. Your actions today help create a safer Tennessee for tomorrow.