This week, Governor Cooper announced a statewide initiative to raise awareness on the importance of safe firearm storage. NC S.A.F.E. (Secure All Firearms Effectively) is a campaign including TV, radio, social media and a website with information about safely and effectively storing guns.

There has been a rise in the number of deaths from firearms across the United States, including among children. There has also been an increase in firearm theft.

Surveys have demonstrated that too many firearms are being kept loaded and unsecured at home. This initiative aims to help inform North Carolinians about ways to prevent needless tragedies from occurring simply by keeping firearms safe and secure.

"Too many North Carolinians have been affected by gun violence and this is a way that we can help provide information that keeps people safe," Rep. Robert Reives said. "This is a commonsense idea that everyone can support: If you own a firearm, keeping it safely locked while in storage is the best way to help protect our communities."

"Chatham County is safer when those who own firearms keep them secure," Chatham County Sheriff Mike Roberson said. "With proper storage, we can keep guns from falling into the wrong hands and prevent needless, accidental deaths."