As you know, the safety and well-being of our students are paramount -- which is why we are sharing this critical firearm safety messaging today. Studies show that a substantial number of unintentional shootings involving children occur when unsecured firearms are found in homes. These tragedies are entirely preventable.

According to Delaware law, firearms must be stored securely when children and persons prohibited are present. Stored securely means LOCKED, UNLOADED, and SEPARATE FROM AMMUNITION. 

We have developed a comprehensive toolkit of materials designed to empower parents and caregivers with the knowledge and resources to securely store firearms, thereby reducing the risk of unintentional shootings and preventing unauthorized access to firearms that could potentially end up in schools. This toolkit includes: (Attached below)

• Secure Storage toolkit / downloadable PDF

• Advocacy Guide for more information (see below)

• Lethal Violence Protective Order guidance 

Our goal is to make sure that all children arrive safely at school each day, and go home to safe environments where they can grow and flourish. Thank you for making sure that the places your children visit, play, and live are safe from unintentional firearm incidents. 

Thank you.

This guide prepared by Coalition for a Safer Delaware, which is focused on ending gun violence in Delaware and nationwide through policy advancement, prevention education, and partnerships. Learn more at saferde.org.

Gun Safety is EVERYONE’s Responsibility

All Delawareans should know the sobering statistics: guns are the leading cause of death for children in America. Every year, hundreds of children in America are injured or killed when they find unsecured firearms in homes. Children are naturally curious and surprisingly resourceful; what seems "hidden" to an adult is often discoverable to a determined, curious child.

Seconds Can Save Lives

The difference between a regular day and a life-changing tragedy often comes down to just a few seconds: the time it takes for a child to find an unsecured gun and pull the trigger. High quality gun safes, lock boxes, trigger locks, and cable locks can create that crucial barrier.

Protecting What Matters Most

Nothing is more valuable than your family's safety and your peace of mind. Secure storage isn't just about following laws or recommendations, it's about making sure that the tools you own for protection never become the source of an unthinkable accident.