Canton Township Proclaims August 2025 Smart Week to Promote Gun Safety

Canton Township has taken a significant step towards enhancing community safety by declaring August 2025 as "Be Smart Week." This resolution, passed unanimously by the Board of Trustees, aims to raise awareness about secure firearm storage practices to protect children and teens from gun-related accidents.

During the meeting, trustees highlighted alarming statistics indicating that guns are the leading cause of death among children and teens in the United States. They emphasized the urgent need for responsible gun ownership, noting that nearly 54% of gun owners do not securely lock their firearms. This lack of secure storage places approximately 4.6 million children at risk of accessing loaded guns in their homes.

The Be Smart campaign, initiated in 2015, provides a framework for parents, caregivers, and community leaders to promote safe gun practices. The SMART acronym stands for Secure, Model, Ask, Recognize, and Tell, encouraging individuals to secure firearms, demonstrate responsible behavior, inquire about gun safety in other homes, acknowledge the risks of firearms, and spread awareness about safe practices.

Trustee Foster, who made the motion for the resolution, along with Treasurer Slavens, underscored the importance of community involvement in preventing tragedies related to unsecured firearms. The Board's commitment to this initiative reflects a broader effort to ensure the safety and well-being of Canton Township's youth.

As the community prepares for Be Smart Week, residents are encouraged to engage in discussions about firearm safety and take proactive steps to secure their guns, ultimately fostering a safer environment for all.