By Joanna Putman
Police1
ALEXANDRIA, Va.— Former NBA star Shaquille O’Neal is participating in an initiative to promote firearm security and safety at home, according to an International Association of Chiefs of Police news release.
The initiative aims to ensure that gun owners practice responsible storage of their firearms to prevent accidents and unauthorized access, according to the release.
The campaign highlights the serious risks associated with improper firearm storage. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that firearm injuries are the leading cause of death among children and teenagers aged 1-19 years old. Additionally, a study by Pew Research Center indicates that over half of all suicides (55%) involve firearms, while research from Harvard’s School of Public Health links access to firearms with an increased risk of suicide.
The PSA also addresses statistics on gun thefts. Each year, approximately 200,000 firearms are stolen in private theft incidents, with vehicles being the leading source of these thefts. The rate of gun thefts from vehicles has tripled over the past decade, underscoring the need for increased vigilance in firearm security, according to the release.
O’Neal’s involvement in this public service announcement is designed to educate gun owners on the importance of securing their weapons.
“You may have a right to carry, but you have a duty to secure your firearms,” O’Neal emphasizes in the campaign’s message.
