Access to a firearm significantly increases the risk of death by suicide, domestic dispute, homicide, and unintentional gunshot. Consumers should be informed of these risks prior to purchasing a firearm. They should also be informed about the importance of responsible firearm storage. Storing your guns locked, unloaded, and separate from ammunition can reduce the risk of self-inflicted and unintentional death and injury among children and teens. Gun buyers should also be provided with contact information for suicide prevention support services at the point of sale.

There is no federal requirement that firearm dealers provide purchasers with information about firearms. States can and should require dealers to provide information to potential purchasers about proper storage techniques and the risks associated with firearm access. Local governments can also require firearm dealers to provide this information to gun purchasers—such a requirement is generally not preempted by state preemption laws.