In an effort to prevent gun-related injuries, the Long Beach Health Department will be giving away free firearm safes at three locations on Aug. 4.
Safes will be given away on a first-come, first-served basis and there is no registration required to receive a safe. This giveaway, returning for its second year, is also meant to protect children, prevent firearm theft and reduce unauthorized access to guns.
Residents may pick up one free firearm safe per household, weighing approximately 10 pounds and capable of storing up to two handguns, along with educational materials on responsible firearm storage and safety.
“We saw tremendous community interest in this program last year, which demonstrated how important safe firearm storage resources are for Long Beach families,” said Mayor Rex Richardson in a public statement. “Safe firearm storage is one of the most effective ways to help reduce unintentional shootings, youth access to firearms and firearm theft. The City continues to invest in evidenced-based violence prevention and public safety strategies that help protect residents and strengthen community.”
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The City will distribute approximately 67 safes at each of the three participating Health Department locations. Residents are encouraged to arrive when distribution sites open, as supplies are limited and expected to be distributed quickly.
During the one-day event last year, all available safes were claimed within 15 minutes.
The distribution will begin at 8:30 a.m. at the following locations:
- Main Health (2525 Grand Ave.)
- Miller Family Health Education Center (3820 Cherry Ave.)
- Ron Arias Health Equity Center (6335 Myrtle Ave.)
Residents must not bring their firearms to distribution locations. Weapons of any kind, including firearms, are prohibited at City facilities.
“Firearm injuries are preventable, and safe storage is a proven strategy to reduce risk,” said Dr. Cliff Okada, Acting City Health Officer, in a public statement. “By securely storing firearms, residents can help prevent accidental shootings, unauthorized access, theft and suicide-related harm, contributing to a safer community for all.”
Funding for the program comes from the City Council-approved Fiscal Year 2026 Racial Equity and Reconciliation Budget, which includes $40,000 in one-time funding to support the City’s Racial Equity and Reconciliation initiative.
According to national public health data, firearms are the leading cause of death among children and adolescents in the United States. To help prevent firearm-related injuries and deaths, the Health Department encourages parents and caregivers to follow the Everytown for Gun Safety Be SMART framework for responsible firearm storage and safety.
- Secure all guns in your home and vehicles
- Model responsible behavior around guns
- Ask about unsecured guns in other homes
- Recognize the role of guns in suicide
- Tell your peers to Be SMART
For more information about safe firearm storage and the Be SMART program, visit the Be SMART for Kids website.
