Vermont Business Magazine Building on the success of last year’s launch, Howard Center is continuing its initiative to distribute free firearm cable locks as part of its comprehensive suicide prevention strategy in Chittenden County. Recognizing the critical link between suicide and firearm access, the program aims to encourage safer firearm storage practices. With firearms involved in over half of the suicides in Vermont, preventive measures are key to firearm safety.
“Safe firearm storage is an essential component in gun safety and suicide prevention," said Mark Margolis, Howard Center’s suicide prevention coordinator.
The majority of suicides occur within minutes or hours following the onset of suicidal thoughts. By increasing the number of barriers, such as secure firearm storage, individuals may have more time to seek help.
"We initiated this program last year and are continuing to encourage community members to use these free firearm cable locks. They are a critical barrier that can ultimately save lives,” Margolis said.
The firearm cable locks work by being inserted into the receiver of a gun, which prevents the mechanical action necessary to discharge a projectile. This method ensures the firearm cannot go into battery, which means the firearm cannot be loaded or fired, an essential barrier in preventing unauthorized use and accidents. The device can be unlocked and removed at any time using the included key. Instructions are included with the firearm cable locks.
Free firearm cable locks are available at Howard Center’s office located at 208 Flynn Avenue in Burlington, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Supplies can be limited, so it’s always best to call in advance to check availability at 802-488-6912 or email [email protected]. For additional firearm cable lock distribution sites across Vermont, visit gunsafevt.org.
This initiative is part of Howard Center’s mission to enhance community safety and support mental well-being. For additional suicide prevention resources including a free copy of the third edition of our Suicide Prevention Across the Lifespan guide in multiple languages, visit https://howardcenter.org/community-education/suicide-prevention/.
Need Support?
If you or a loved one need support, our Access and Intake main number 802-488-6000 is available Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Our First Call for Chittenden County crisis hotline, 802-488-7777, is available 24/7/365. Help is here.
ABOUT HOWARD CENTER: Howard Center has a long and rich history as a trusted provider in the community. With a legacy spanning more than 150 years, we have been providing progressive, compassionate, high-quality care and supports to those in need. Today, we offer an array of exemplary mental health, substance use, and developmental services across the lifespan. As Vermont’s largest social service organization, our 1,600 staff help more than 19,000 people each year in over 60 locations throughout Vermont in collaboration with hundreds of community partners. Howard Center’s 24/7/365 crisis service, First Call for Chittenden County, is available to meet the needs of Chittenden County children, adults, and families in crisis by calling 802-488-7777. www.howardcenter.org. Help is here. We are a United Way of Northwest Vermont Funded Agency.
Source: 2.29.2024. BURLINGTON, VT — Howard Center www.howardcenter.org
