Vaults and Safes

Americans possess close to 200 million firearms, and 65 million handguns. Many use the weapons for recreation activities like skeet and target shooting, and hunting. Others keep their guns for protection.An unfortunate side affect of gun ownership, however, is that unintentional shootings account for almost 20% of all gun-related deaths among children aged 14 and under.

Nearly a third of American families with children keep a gun in their home. Many times guns kept for protection (hand guns, usually) are left loaded and unlocked, and within a child’s reach.

No one wants or expects their child to get a hold of their firearm—but statistics show it happens–and all too often. Sometimes kids can even mistake a real gun for a toy! Decreasing the accessibility of guns can eliminate the likelihood of an accidental shooting in a family residence. Gun safes are easy to obtain, and are affordable. Locking away guns will ensure the weapon doesn’t cause unintentional harm.

My parent’s house burned down last year. They lost everything, and they had no fire insurance. It was so sad; my Mom didn’t even have time to grab her treasured family photographs, let alone any keepsakes or antiques. When I arrived at my parent’s house the night of the fire all Mom would say was “all your baby pictures are in there.” Dad was patting her back and trying to console her, but I could tell he was just as upset.Mom and Dad are renting an apartment now, and are slowly recovering from the disaster. At least they have their Pomeranian “Pickles” to keep cheer them up. I hate to say it, but the apartment never feels like home to me. There are no family photos on the wall, nor is there my great aunt’s collection of antique salt shakers lined neatly on shelves.

I know I couldn’t have prevented the fire, but I do wish I would have instructed my parents on how to save important documents, files, pictures and jewelry. If I would have only suggested they invest in a fireproof media safe to store all of their keepsakes, maybe Mom would still be able to fondly look at her wedding pictures. It’s too late now. I bought a fireproof media safe for my family last month. Even if I lose my house to a fire, I feel comforted that I won’t lose my history.