According to a recent study conducted by Rutgers researchers, firearm owners are more likely to consider temporary out-of-home storage when concerned about the safety of others. The study, published in JAMA Network Open, surveyed 3,018 U.S. adults living in households with firearms to understand their willingness to temporarily store their firearms with either firearm retailers or law enforcement.
The findings revealed that firearm owners prioritize the safety of household members over their own self-protection when deciding whether to temporarily store their firearms outside the home. While many participants expressed concern about leaving their home defenseless, they were more willing to store their firearms with retailers rather than law enforcement agencies.
Lead author of the study, Jennifer Paruk, who is a postdoctoral fellow at the New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, emphasized the importance of highlighting the short-term nature of voluntary, temporary storage to keep loved ones safe. The study suggests that installing lockers within firearm retailers may increase firearm owners’ willingness to opt for temporary out-of-home storage.
In response to these findings, experts at the New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center have developed a New Jersey firearm storage map that highlights places throughout the state where firearm owners can opt for temporary, voluntary firearm storage based on 2021 data. Additionally, several states now provide online maps that show firearm retailers and law enforcement agencies willing to accept temporary storage requests.
The study, titled “Owner Willingness to Temporarily Store Firearms With Firearm Retailers and Law Enforcement Agencies,” underscores the importance of promoting voluntary, temporary storage options to ensure the safety of household members. By addressing concerns about leaving the home unprotected and emphasizing the benefits of temporary storage for loved ones, firearm owners may be more inclined to consider this option.
For more information on the study, readers can access the full article in JAMA Network Open with DOI 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2025.21921. The research was conducted by Rutgers University and provides valuable insights into firearm owners’ attitudes towards temporary out-of-home storage options.
