The Howard County Health Department successfully distributed 88 gunlock boxes and 300 gunlock cables during a recent Drive-Thru Gun Lockbox and Cable Giveaway, helping residents take steps toward safer firearm storage at home.
Today’s event drew participation from more than 90 residents. Participants received a free biometric gun lock box or safety cable lock designed to prevent unauthorized access to firearms—particularly by children, teens and individuals in crisis.
In addition to promoting safe firearm storage, the drive-thru event allowed the Health Department’s Emergency Preparedness Program to successfully exercise its ability to operate a Point of Dispensing (POD) site. PODs are used in emergencies to rapidly distribute medications, vaccines, or supplies to the public.
“We were pleased to see so many residents take proactive steps to keep their homes and families safe,” said Dr. Maura Rossman, Howard County Health Officer. “Events like this allow us to promote injury prevention and test our emergency response capabilities at the same time.”
"I want to thank our Health Department for holding this innovative drive thru gunlock box and cable giveaway," said Howard County Executive Calvin Ball. "Fire-arm related suicides account for more than one-third of all suicide deaths in Howard County. Research shows delaying access to a firearm through a gunlock box can significantly reduce the likelihood of a fatal outcome. We want all of our residents who choose to have firearms in their homes do so in a safe way that protects all."
During the event, participants remained in their vehicles as health department staff and volunteers distributed safety devices and educational materials about mental health resources.
“This exercise gave our team real-world experience operating a drive-thru POD, which is critical to ensure that we can respond quickly and effectively in any public health emergency,” said Thomas Franklin, Public Health Emergency Planner for the Health Department.
For more information about our free gunlock giveaway program and where to find them, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/health/free-gun-locks. To learn more about our Emergency Preparedness Program go to https://www.howardcountymd.gov/health/emergency-preparedness.