Citizen-Driven Firearm Safety Policies in a Rural Pennsylvania County

Abstract

We explore data from focus group interviews (n = 25) and community surveys (n = 630) to examine resident support for policies to reduce firearm injuries in a rural Pennsylvania county. The data highlights overwhelming community support for integrating firearms safety education for persons under the age of 18 years. Support for expanding safe storage options and safety training varied significantly based on a resident’s own firearm ownership, concealed carry license, age, gender, and prior exposure to firearm injury. We offer a discussion of realistic policies and programs within the purview of county government that could receive widespread community support in rural areas. This includes the selection of effective preventive interventions targeting firearm safety at an early age that includes knowledge of and access to mental health resources.