September is National Suicide Prevention Month, and as firearm owners, each of us has the power to save lives—sometimes in the simplest of ways: by securely storing our firearms.

That’s the focus of NSSF’s Gun Storage Check Week®, happening Sept. 1–7. This week is your reminder to pause and take a few minutes to review how you store your firearms at home, in your vehicle and anywhere else they’re kept.

Why Storage Matters

Secure storage isn’t just about preventing theft or accidents—it also saves lives.

• Did you know that 58% of firearm fatalities are suicide deaths and that firearms are involved in 74% of veteran suicides?
• Storing firearms securely creates what experts call “time and distance”—a critical pause that allows someone struggling with suicidal thoughts the chance to find help before acting on a moment of crisis.

As NSSF President and CEO Joe Bartozzi explains:

“Gun owners and their families have it in their power to save lives. Securely storing firearms creates time and distance between a person with suicidal thoughts and a method of self-harm.”

How to Take Part

Head to GunStorageCheck.org between Sept. 1–7 and you’ll find resources, videos and even a chance to win a Winchester Bandit 19 full-size gun safe. You can earn additional entries by watching a short video on suicide prevention, plus see a new video from Winchester featuring TV host Melissa Bachman on keeping your gun safe organized and in top condition.

You’ll also find:

• The NSSF-AFSP suicide prevention brochure, with tips on spotting warning signs and how to have a “brave conversation” with someone who may be struggling.
• Resources specifically for veterans, including links to the VA’s “Don’t wait. Reach out.” program.
• A suicide prevention toolkit available to ranges and retailers.

And remember, if you or someone you know is in crisis, call, text or chat 988—the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Storage Options for Every Household

Not all storage solutions look the same and your needs may change as life changes. During Gun Storage Check Week, take a look at the secure storage devices available to you:

• Cable locks—often free through NSSF’s Project ChildSafe®
• Lock boxes—ideal for quick-access home or vehicle use
• Lockable gun cases—for security and portability
• Gun cabinets and full-size safes—for multiple firearms, fire and theft protection
• Smart digital storage—modern options that alert you if your safe is tampered with

Ask yourself: Has anything changed in my household? A child growing older? A teen or adult facing a difficult season of life? If so, it may be time to adjust your storage practices.

Chance to Win!

Each week in September 2025, enter to win firearm storage units and other safety equipment thanks to the generous support of Gun Storage Check Week sponsors—Winchester and ShotLock.

Spread the Word

Gun Storage Check Week is only in its second year, but it’s already reaching millions of firearm owners with its “Make Sure It’s Secure®” message. You can help by sharing the campaign with friends, family, local ranges and organizations. Promotional materials are available at GunStorageCheck.org.

This September, make it a priority to double-check your storage habits. Secure firearms mean peace of mind—and they just may save a life.