Seattle Public Schools

Gun Safety

Summary: Explore the resources to learn how you can play a role in preventing firearm-related injuries and deaths in our communities.

Firearms Safe Storage and Preventing Gun Violence

The safety of our students, families, and communities is a priority. 

Owning a gun is a personal decision, but secure storage is a public safety issue. Kids and unsecured guns are a potentially lethal combination. Each year in the U.S., nearly 350 children ages 17 and under gain access to a firearm and unintentionally shoot themselves or someone else.  Every year, nearly 700 children, 17 and under, die by suicide with a gun.    

Safely Store Firearms

Store firearms locked, unloaded, and separate from ammunition. Read more about safe storage of firearms on the Seattle & King County Public Health webpage.

Talk with Family and Friends about Safe Storage

We encourage you to ask about the presence of unsecured guns in any home your child visits. Assume children and teens can find guns.

Know the Warning Signs of Suicide

Unlocked firearms are a risk to people struggling with suicidal thoughts. Learn more and find resources for suicide prevention and intervention at SPS.

You may also be interested in

Talking with Children about Overdose Prevention

It’s important to help students understand what prescription opioids (pain medicine or pain killers) are and why they shouldn’t misuse them.

Safety Enhancement Updates from Superintendent Jones

Safety remains a top priority for Seattle Public Schools (SPS). Students are more likely to be successful when they feel safe and welcome at school. Please know my focus on student and staff safety and wellness is unwavering. I have listened to your concerns and pain, both as a parent…
A graphic with Seattle Public Schools logo

Fall 2023 Safe and Welcoming Schools Update

District Campus Safety Updates and Student Well-being Supports This summer, Seattle Public Schools (SPS) continued our work on safety improvements in all schools. We launched a mobile phone app that provides easy access for our community to report safety concerns. We updated signage for all our schools to help students,…