To enhance gun safety in homes, the Calhoun County Public Health Department (CCPHD) is distributing free gun locks to county residents who possess firearms and have children in their households. This initiative corresponds with Michigan's safe storage law, enacted last Thursday, which mandates the secure storage of unloaded guns in households with children, either with a gun lock or in a gun safe.

According to information released by WOODTV, the goal is to promote responsible firearms ownership. Although state law requires this, CCPHD offers these locks "no questions asked" to make compliance easier for residents. Failure to securely store firearms, as dictated by Public Act 17, can lead to prosecution under Public Law 16 if a minor uses an unsecured gun.

"Unintentional injury is the leading cause of death for children ages 0-17, with nearly half of firearm-related deaths among children occurring at home," Lauren Lewandowski, the community public health director at CCPHD, stated, as per WWMT. "These tragedies are preventable," Lewandowski explained, emphasizing the significance of gun locks in protecting children from firearm-related injuries and deaths.

Residents can obtain these safety devices at two main CCPHD office locations: 115 Market Place in Albion and 190 East Michigan Avenue in Battle Creek. As per details shared by WKZO, the locks will also be available at various community events throughout the county, ensuring accessibility to all. Furthermore, the county also provides educational material on safe firearm storage and gun safety, recognizing that knowledge is as crucial as physical tools to prevent harm.