San Antonio health officials are urging gun owners to secure their firearms, especially in homes where children and older individuals at risk for suicide reside. The San Antonio Metropolitan Health District issued an advisory specifically targeting gun owners with children.

Health officials recommend that firearm safeties be engaged when weapons are not in use. They also advise storing guns unloaded and separate from ammunition. Gun owners should use a gun lock, trigger lock, lock box, or safe for storage. Officials also advise gun owners not to leave firearms in their vehicles. Approximately seven guns were stolen from vehicles daily in San Antonio in 2024, according to San Antonio Police Department crime statistics.

Erica Haller-Stevenson, violence prevention administrator, said gun violence is the leading cause of death for children in Texas. She stated that most children, including young children, know how to use a gun due to the popularity of video games. "The most important thing to do is manage your firearm responsibly," Haller-Stevenson said. "Young kids do not understand death the way older kids and adults do. They don't understand that consequences are permanent. They also may not understand that just handling a gun improperly can accidentally discharge a bullet."