Safety Updates and Announcements
Safe Storage of Firearms
Michigan’s secure storage law went into effect Feb. 13, 2024, to help protect Michigan’s youth and reduce firearm injuries. The law requires firearm owners to securely store firearms whenever minors are present or likely to be present. It also requires schools to share this information with all parents and guardians, which is intended to help parents, guardians and firearm owners understand and comply with Michigan's secure storage law.
Summary of the Law (MCL 28.429)
Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Secure Storage (includes Arabic and Spanish materials)
Michigan Department of Education Safe Storage Law
Secure Storage Requirements
If a firearm is unattended where a minor (under 18) is or is likely to be present, it must be:
- Secured in a locked box or container, and/or
- Unloaded and secured with a locking device, like a trigger or cable lock, that would prevent anyone from using it.
This law applies whether firearms are in your own home or brought to another location.
Firearms in Vehicles
While traveling with a firearm in a vehicle, the vehicle must be locked when not in use, and the firearm must be secured and either locked in a container or unloaded and disabled with a trigger or cable lock if a child is present or likely to be present in the vehicle or destination.
Importance and Benefits of Secure Storage to Help Keep Children Safe
Legal ownership of firearms is a Constitutional right. This comes with important safety responsibilities to prevent thefts, firearm homicide, firearm suicide, and unintentional firearm injuries, including among children. Simply hiding unlocked firearms or keeping them on a shelf out of reach does not guarantee or equal secure storage under Michigan law. Secure storage reduces the risk of unintentional injuries among children and theft of guns. When access to guns is reduced, the overall suicide rate drops.
Unintentional firearm injuries among children 17 years and younger happen most often*:
- With guns that are loaded and unlocked.
- When a child is playing with a gun or showing it to someone else.
In these situations, the most common victim of an unintentional firearm injury is a friend or a sibling of the child.
Closets and nightstands are common locations of guns used in these fatal unintended shootings.
For more information and a full list of other resources, including Project ChildSafe, visit the MDHHS firearm secure storage page at MDHHS Secure Storage or the Michigan Department of Education Safe Storage Law.
* Source: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Safe Storage of Firearms FAQ
Q: Does the safe storage law apply to all firearms or only certain types?
A: This law applies to all firearms, including handguns, rifles and shotguns. If the firearm is not under immediate control of the possessor, on a premises where a minor is likely to be present, it must be securely stored to prevent access by minors.
Q: Does this law apply to both loaded and unloaded firearms?
A: Yes. Both loaded and unloaded firearms must be properly secured to prevent unauthorized access by minors.
Even unloaded firearms can pose threats to minors if not securely stored.
Q: Do I need to use a specific type of lock or safe to comply?
A: Yes. A “locked box or container" means a secure container, specifically designed for the storage of firearms, that is fully enclosed and locked by a padlock, key lock, combination lock or similar locking device to which a
minor does not possess the key or combination, or otherwise have access. "Locking device" means a trigger lock, cable lock, or similar lock that prevents a firearm from discharging. If a locking device is used, the firearm must be unloaded.
Q: What should I do if I suspect another child might have access to a firearm that isn’t being securely stored, in violation of the law?
A: Contact your local law enforcement agency. Students can report potential violations in a school setting to
Michigan's OK2SAY program at OK2SAY@mi.gov, text 652729 (OK2SAY), or call 855-565-2729 (8-555-OK2SAY). Call 9-1-1 in any emergency.
Q: Where can I get a lock box, container or a locking device?
A: Some police departments, local health departments or other community organizations may provide free or
low-cost firearm locks or storage devices. Firearm safety kits which contain a locking device and an informational brochure are available through Project ChildSafe. Check with your local law enforcement agency for more information.
Q: Are there exceptions to the law?
A: The law does not apply if the minor obtains a firearm:
- With the permission of the minor’s parent or guardian and if the minor uses the firearm under the supervision of the parent, guardian, or individual who is 18 or older and is authorized by the minor’s parent or guardian, and the firearm is possessed or used for:
- The minor’s employment.
- Ranching, farming, or hunting and the minor is compliant with all applicable hunting laws.
- Target practice or instruction of safe use of a firearm.
- Through unlawful entry of any premises or motor vehicle where the firearm has been stored.
- While lawfully acting in self-defense or in defense of another individual.
Q: As a non-gun owner, how can I make sure that children and teenagers stay safe when they visit homes with firearms?
A: Even if you don’t own a firearm, you can take proactive steps to ensure the safety of youth by teaching children about the danger of touching firearms, ask hosts if firearms are present, verify if they are securely stored and share safety resources. For additional resources, please visit: Gun Safety Resources | Be SMART.
America's Safe Schools Week
At Ingham ISD, safety is a top priority. As part of our recent Capital Improvement projects, secure entrances were created at Wilson Talent Center, North Star School and Heartwood School. Watch this short video featuring Ingham ISD Facilities & Safety Director, Steve Rusnock, as he walks through how our new security measures are keeping staff and students safe.
