Craig County Public Schools is reminding families about the importance of safely storing prescription medications and firearms in the home.
In a letter dated Aug. 18, Superintendent Jason A. Wheeler said the school division is required under Virginia law § 22.1-79.3 to share reminders about the safe storage of prescription medications and firearms.
The division encouraged families to store prescription medications in a secure location out of the reach of children and others for whom the medications were not prescribed. Families also are encouraged to keep medications in their original containers, monitor their use and properly dispose of unused or expired medications through approved disposal programs.
The school division also urged firearm owners to take precautions to prevent unauthorized access.
Under Virginia law § 18.2-56.2, criminal penalties can apply in certain circumstances when a child gains access to an unsecured firearm. The school division said safe firearm storage is one of the most effective ways to prevent accidental shootings, unauthorized access, theft and suicide.
Firearm owners are encouraged to:
Store firearms unloaded and secured in a locked safe, lockbox or with a locking device.
Store ammunition separately in a locked location.
Ensure only authorized adults have access to firearms and storage keys or combinations.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, firearm injuries remain one of the leading causes of death among children and adolescents in the United States. The school division said many of these tragedies involve unsecured firearms found in the home and that safe storage significantly reduces the risk of accidental injury, unauthorized access and youth suicide.
Wheeler also encouraged families to seek help if they are concerned that a child or another young person may be struggling with mental health or may be at risk of harming themselves or others.
Parents and guardians can contact a child’s school counselor, health care provider, or call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. In an emergency, families should call 911.
“By securely storing prescription medications and firearms and by maintaining open conversations about safety and mental wellness, we can work together to protect our children,” Wheeler said.
