Thurston County, Washington

The content on the Thurston County website is currently provided in English. We are providing the “Translation” for approximately 10 languages. The goal of the translation is to provide visitors with limited English proficiency to access information on the website in other languages. The translations do not translate all types of documents, and it may not give you an exact translation all the time. The translations are made through an automated process, which may not result in accurate or precise translations, particularly of technical and legal terminology.
County Contacts
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Thurston County Washington

Public Health and Social Services

Firearm Safety

Firearm deaths are a significant public health concern affecting countless community members across the United States. Between 2018-2022 in Washington State there were 4,433 firearm deaths (National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, CDC, 2018-2022). Nearly 3/4 of these deaths were suicide by firearm.  Firearm injuries and death are tragic, but they are preventable. By educating ourselves and our community members about safe storage practices, we can drastically reduce the number of lives lost due to firearms. 

Lock IT Up Logo with Gun Outline - stating Simple. Secure. Ready.

What does "safe storage practice" mean? 

Storing a firearm safely means it is unloaded and locked with a trigger or cable lock, in a lockbox, or in a safe. All four of these storage devices are locked with either a key, a combination code, or fingerprint recognition; some may offer multiple locking options. Ammunition is locked in a separate location from the firearm. Ensure that keys and combination codes are kept away from unauthorized people. 

 

Why does 'safe storage' matter?

Storing a firearm locked and unloaded can prevent access by unauthorized users. The Washington State Department of Health reported that between 2020-2022, younger patients (0-24) accounted for approximately 1/3 of all firearm injury emergency department visits and hospitalizations. Safe storage can prevent a child from unintentionally harming themselves or someone else. Safe storage practices can also prevent someone from harming themselves in a moment of crisis. Additionally, when firearms are stored safely, it can deter theft and prevent misuse of a firearm in a crime.

Firearm Injuries (RHINO) 

In Washington State in 2022:

Household Reported Storage practices: 

  • 34% store firearms unlocked
  • 31% store firearms loaded
  • 47% store firearms unlocked and loaded
  • 49% of gun owners reported storing their firearms safely (locked and unloaded.)

Data Source: Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) 

Stolen Firearms in Washington State

Many firearms are reported stolen each year. In 2022, 54% of stolen firearms were taken from residences or homes in Washington State. 

Data Source: Washington Association of Sheriffs & Police Chiefs (WASPC)

Gun with Trigger Lock stock photo

The Lock it Up program

Lock It Up was started in King County, Washington in the late 1990’s to protect community members and reduce injury and death by firearms. The fundamental elements of the Lock It Up program are that a locked firearm is SAFE, SECURE, and READY. The Lock it up program provides information on safe storage practices, the approximate cost of safety devices, and advantages and disadvantages of each type of safety device so that gun owners can make informed decisions about which storage device is best for them. Here in Thurston County, we have partnered with Seattle & King County Public Health to bring the Lock It Up program to our residents.