Safe firearm storage is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of unintentional injury, suicide, and unauthorized access to firearms. Through education, practical resources, and community partnerships, the Lancaster County Safe Firearm Storage Program is helping firearm owners make informed decisions that create safer homes and save lives.

Recent follow-up surveys from past class participants demonstrate that this education is leading to meaningful, lasting changes.

Education That Leads to Action

During this reporting period, 15 former participants completed a follow-up survey to assess long-term changes in firearm storage practices and household safety behaviors. The results show that even a single educational class can have a lasting impact.

Before attending a Safe Firearm Storage class, 40% of respondents reported they were not using any safe storage device for their firearms. After participating in the program, 93% reported implementing at least one safe storage method, such as a cable lock, gun safe, or both.

Even more encouraging, every participant who adopted a safe storage practice reported continuing those habits after the class. Among respondents, 64% regularly use both a gun safe and a cable lock to secure their firearms.

Building Safer Habits at Home

The program’s impact extends beyond the use of storage devices.

More than 70% of respondents reported developing or updating a family firearm safety plan after attending the class, encouraging ongoing conversations about responsible firearm ownership and household safety. Additionally, 86% reported changing their firearm-related habits or behaviors, demonstrating that the program inspires sustained behavior change — not just increased awareness.

Creating a Ripple Effect Throughout the Community

The benefits of the program reach far beyond individual households.

Several participants shared that they pursued additional firearm safety training after completing the class, and every respondent said they had recommended the Safe Firearm Storage class to a friend or family member. A 100% recommendation rate reflects both participant satisfaction and the value of community-based firearm safety education.

Every Conversation Matters

These survey findings demonstrate that the Lancaster County Safe Firearm Storage Program is doing more than sharing information — it is helping people take meaningful action to protect themselves, their families, and their communities.

By providing practical education, free safe storage devices, and trusted resources, the program continues to empower Lancaster County residents to make informed decisions that support household safety while helping prevent firearm injuries and suicide.

Every conversation about safe firearm storage has the potential to save a life, and together, we can continue building a safer, healthier community.

DISCLAIMER: This data was collected and analysed by our partners in this work, Penn Medicine.