The map was developed to help anyone seeking a local option for temporary, voluntary firearm storage. As a part of the Nebraska's Governor's Challenge to address Veterans' suicide rates, providing innovative ways to provide resources for ALL Nebraskans emerged.
The Nebraska Department of Veterans' Affairs, non-profits, local gun shops, and law enforcement agencies across the state teamed together to create a safe storage map to identify safe and voluntary gun storage and clear, legal parameters looking to provide or secure safe firearm storage.
Voluntary vs. Court Ordered storage?
There's a HUGE difference between the two! Nebraska does not have "Red Flag Laws." The STFS is only for the gun owner to request temporary storage. No court or police are officially involved, other than the owner choosing if they want to store their firearm at a law enforcement location instead of a gun shop.
Who can use Safe Storage Temporary Storage?
Anyone. The STFS is not exclusive to mental health or concerns about suicide. There are many reasons why someone may want to have firearms out of their home for a few days, weeks, or months at a time.
For example:
The homeowner is listing the home for sale: to prevent strangers from seeing their firearm collection and set up while showings occur.
They are traveling out of state. Having the additional safety of storage out of the home brings peace of mind.
A teenager in the home is in crisis and at risk for suicide.
The grandkids are visiting for a week
A couple is divorcing and arguments are getting heated.
A family member is experiencing a mental health crisis or substance abuse concerns.
Gun owners can lead the way on safety.
If you're looking for temporary gun storage, we encourage you to contact the listed business and law enforcement agencies for further information.
Are all the locations the same in how they offer temporary storage?
No.
Each location, shop, department determines how Safe Storage will work for them. Contracts between the firearm owner and the location are specific to each partnering location.
How to store or access the firearms is also unique to each location.
Please review the map, note the details and requirements, and call ahead to ask questions before arriving to request Safe Temporary Firearm Storage.
When looking for storage options, what questions should I ask?
Before taking your firearms to a storage location, you should first ask about:
The process or requirements for storing
Any costs
Storage size limitations
Some locations can have space only for hand guns while others can accommodate for more.
Whether a background check will be conducted.
(Most locations do not, but each location determines how Safe Firearm Storage works for them. It's best to ask first.)
What requirements are needed for releasing the firearms back to the owner.
Example: State ID, proof of ownership, etc.
Any limits on how long guns can be stored
Many retailers consider offering storage on a case-to-case basis
Please reach out to the location ahead of time to discuss whether they can accommodate your request.
Do not open carry firearms into a police station - always call in advance. Lock firearms in a case or leave them locked in your vehicle while making arrangements with law enforcement. Some locations provide pick-up services; you may inquire about that when you call.
