About the Program
The Howard County Gun Lock Program has partnered with the Library System to pilot a program offering free gun safety locks to Howard County adults at the Elkridge and East Columbia library locations. The aim of this partnership is to increase gun safety, reduce accidental injuries and save lives.
From 2019-2023, more than 1 in 3 (36%) suicides in Howard County were by firearms. Over those five years, firearms were the leading method of suicide among those 20 years and older. Using a gun safety lock can create a critical pause that could help save a life.
Who can pick up a gun lock
The following people are eligible to get up to two free gun safety locks:
- Howard County residents
- Adults 18 and older
No library card is needed to participate and no proof of residency is required. People who pick up gun locks will be asked to provide some basic demographic information for internal Health Department use.
Where to pick up a gun lock
During the first phase of this project, free gun locks will be available at the following Library locations during normal business hours:
- East Columbia Branch (6600 Cradlerock Way)
- Elkridge Branch (6540 Washington Blvd.)
To locate the library branch closest to your home, visit the library's website. A library card is not needed to pick up a gun safety lock. Visitors can go up to the front desk and request up to two gun locks.
When picking up a gun lock, please DO NOT bring firearms to the library.
How to use the lock
How were the gun locks purchased
During the first phase of this program, the gun locks being distributed are a courtesy of the VA Maryland Health Care System. Future funding for gun locks will be provided through a grant from the Maryland Department of Health.
Gun Safety/Suicide Prevention Information
- Center for Firearm Violence and Prevention (Maryland Department of Health)
- Suicide Prevention (Maryland Department of Health)
- A Parent's Guide to Firearm Storage (Maryland Center for School Safety)
- Discussing Mental Health (Project ChildSafe)
- Be SMART responsible gun ownership campaign
- Suicide Prevention Resources for Individuals (NSSF, The Firearm Industry Trade …