The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, in collaboration with First Choice Healthcare, are promoting firearm safety by offering free gun locks. Available at their offices and clinics in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon, these simple devices are vital in reducing firearm-related injuries and deaths. Statistics show that locked firearms and ammunition can drastically decrease the risk of self-inflicted and accidental injuries. The initiative, supported by the Veterans Crisis Line, addresses gun safety as part of a broader public health effort. Residents are encouraged to participate, especially those affected by mental health concerns. The importance of safeguarding firearms is underscored by their potential to save lives.
“Health Department officials note Every Day, 64 Americans die by firearm suicide — one every 22 minutes. Also of note, households that locked both firearms and ammunition were associated with a 78 percent lower risk of self-inflicted firearm injuries and an 85 percent lower risk of unintentional firearm injuries among children and teens, compared to those that locked neither.”
These gun locks are available through the Veterans Crisis Line. This is a 24/7 Confidential Crisis Support Network. Simply: Dial 988 the Press 1; or Chat at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat; or Text 838255.
Residents can pick up free gun safety locks by stopping by the Henry and Stark County Health Department Offices and First Choice Healthcare clinic locations in Kewanee, 110 N. Burr Blvd.; Colona, 103 1st St.; and Toulon, 120 E. Court St., Monday through Friday from 8 am to 4 pm.