COLUMBUS, N.C. — The Polk County Health and Human Services Agency is excited to share news of a collaborative effort with the Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Department of Public Health (DPH) to reduce injury and deaths related to firearms. According to NC Wildlife, in past several months there has been an increase in firearm-related injuries and fatalities, particularly among children and in hunting-related incidents.

To assist community members with responsible gun ownership, the Polk County Health and Human Services Agency (Polk County HHSA) has obtained gun locks through the partnership with DPH and DPS. These locks play a vital role in promoting safety and fostering responsible firearm practices. Polk County HHSA is partnering with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office to help distribute the gun locks while supplies last.

“These gun locks are a quick and effective way to keep your firearms secured safely so children cannot harm themselves or others. We look forward to distributing to the community in the coming weeks,” said Polk County Sheriff Tim Wright.

Gun locks provide a crucial layer of protection against hunting-related incidents. By securing firearms with these locks, hunters can significantly reduce the risk of unintentional discharges and enhance overall safety during hunting activities and in the off-seasons while firearms are stored.

“Firearm incidents among the nation’s youth have been tragically high according to the CDC data from 2018 to 2021,” said Polk County HHSA Director Joshua Kennedy. “With firearms being identified as the leading cause of death in individuals aged 0 to 24 years in the United States. In North Carolina, on average, 156 children and teens succumb to gun-related incidents each year, with 32% classified as suicides and 62% as homicides. Nationally, 33% of all gun deaths among children and teens are suicides, and 62% are homicides.”

Safe storage is a big part of firearm safety and local gun owners are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to obtain these free locks for their firearms. Distribution is available at Polk County Division of Public Health and the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. Additional information can be obtained by contacting 828-894-8271.

Polk County Sheriff’s Office
164 Government Complex Dr.
Columbus, NC 28722

Polk County Public Health Admin Office
2881 NC HWY 108 E
Columbus, NC 28139

Here are several benefits of Gun Locks:

1. Child Safety: Gun locks serve as a robust barrier against unintentional firearm access by children, significantly reducing the likelihood of injuries and fatalities.

2. Prevention of Unauthorized Use: By securing firearms with these locks, gun owners can effectively hinder unauthorized individuals from accessing and using their weapons, thereby promoting overall community safety.

3. Responsible Firearm Ownership: Utilizing gun locks exemplifies a proactive and responsible approach, emphasizing the importance of secure firearm ownership and storage.

4. Hunting Safety: Gun locks provide an additional layer of protection against unintentional discharges during hunting, contributing to a safer hunting environment.

Special thanks to the Department of Public Safety and the Department of Public Health for their collaboration and support in this important initiative. Together, we can make significant strides toward building a safer community.