Special to IFN

NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal and police departments across the country are teaming up this week to make sure gun owners everywhere practice firearms security and safety at home.

According to the latest available data, most Americans, including gun owners, agree that firearm security by people who lawfully own guns is reasonable and necessary. In the coming days, law enforcement officials will be getting out into their communities to discuss firearms security and safety at home so that when you store your guns, you do so securely at all times in all locations.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, firearm injuries were the leading cause of death among children and teens ages 1-19 years old. According to Pew, 55 percent of all suicides were committed with firearms, and according to Harvard’s School of Public Health, access to firearms is associated with increased suicide risk. This public service from Shaq and law enforcement will offer tips to educate gun owners.

Each year, approximately 200,000 guns are stolen in private theft incidents. The leading source for stolen guns is vehicles, and the rate of these thefts is triple what it was a decade ago. That’s another reason why this campaign a “slam dunk” for families across America.

Take it from Shaq: “You may have a right to carry, but you have a duty to secure your firearms.”

WATCH THE VIDEO: HERE