The Long Beach health department will distribute 200 free firearm safes across three locations next week, as part of an effort to prevent firearm-related injuries, reduce unauthorized access to firearms, protect children and prevent firearm theft.
Firearm safes will be distributed free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis, with no registration required, according to a press release.
“Firearm injuries are preventable, and safe storage is a proven strategy to reduce risk,” acting City Health Officer Cliff Okada said in a 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.”
Residents may pick up one free firearm safe per household, weighing about 10 pounds and capable of storing up to two handguns, along with educational materials on responsible firearm storage and safety, at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 4, at the following locations:
Main Health Facility, 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, officials said. Weapons of any kind, including firearms, are prohibited at city facilities.
This will be the second year of the initiative after strong community participation in the city’s firearm safe distribution program in 2025. During the one-day event last year, all available safes were claimed within 15 minutes.
“We saw tremendous community interest in this program last year, which demonstrated how important safe firearm storage resources are for Long Beach families,” Mayor Rex Richardson said in a 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 evidence-based violence prevention and public safety strategies that help protect residents and strengthen community”.
City staffers will distribute about 67 safes at each of the three participating health department locations on Tuesday, the press release said. Residents are encouraged to arrive when distribution sites open, as supplies are limited and expected to be distributed quickly.
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 funds to support Long Beach’s Racial Equity and Reconciliation Initiative, officials said. The program also aligns with the city’s 2030 Strategic Vision of ensuring children and youth are safe from violence.