What are "Red Flag" firearms laws?
Red Flag laws give people the power to step in when someone is in danger. If a person is showing signs that they might harm themselves or others, anyone, a friend, family member, neighbour, or professional can ask a court to temporarily remove or limit that person’s access to guns.
Indigenous Women in Canada
Indigenous women in Canada experience more violence than any other group. Many are threatened or scared long before anything serious happens. By using Red Flag laws early, when the first signs of danger appear, families and communities can help protect Indigenous women and stop harm before it happens.
Even before something serious happens, many Indigenous women notice clear warning signs, repeated threats, unpredictable behavior, growing fear, or actions that make them feel unsafe around someone who has a gun. These signs are serious, and paying attention to them can save lives.
Red Flag firearm laws can help if used early. They let family, friends, and community members step in to temporarily limit someone’s access to firearms. This gives everyone time to stay safe and get help. Acting at the first sign of danger can protect Indigenous women before harm occurs.
The Red Flag Firearm Laws was created in December 2023 after Bill C-21 was passed, to help prevent violence and protect lives before it’s too late.
There are two main ways the law can help:
- Emergency Prohibition Order: This allows the court to temporarily take away guns from someone who poses a risk.
- Emergency Limitation on Access: This stops a person from buying or using guns while concerns are being reviewed.
Who can take action
Anyone who’s worried about someone’s safety, family, friends, neighbours, health workers, or advocates can file a request.
When to act
If you see signs of growing violence, controlling behavior, suicidal thoughts, or any real safety concern, you can apply for an order.
Red Flag laws are meant to stop harm before it happens, giving families and communities a safe and legal way to protect the people they care about.
This website is for general awareness only. It’s not a source of legal advice. If you’re unsure about what steps to take, reach out to a local legal aid office or a trusted community organization.
Recognize the Warning Signs
When someone uses a firearm to threaten or control their partner, it creates deep fear and real danger.
Sexual violence is always about power and control and when a firearm is involved, that control becomes even more terrifying.
Stalking is about obsession and controlling a desperate attempt by someone to hold power over another person’s life.
Home is supposed to be the safest place where families feel loved and protected.
Every woman deserves to feel safe, whether walking to work, studying at school, or spending time with family and friends.
Work is where many of us spend most of our day. It should be a place of respect, teamwork, and safety not fear.
Suicide is one of the most painful things that can happen to a family or community. It leaves behind deep sadness, confusion, and questions that are hard to answer.
The Reality in Canada
Every number represents a story that should be heard, a life, and a family.
Every 6 days
A woman in Canada loses her life at the hands of her intimate partner.
5× more likely
Women are five times more likely to be killed when a firearm is present in the home.
1 in 4
One in four women shot or threatened with a firearm were attacked by a current or former partner.
6 in 10 Indigenous women
More than 6 in 10 Indigenous women (63%) have experienced firearm assault in their lifetime.
Take Action Now
Violence doesn’t always start with control, loneliness, or fear rather than a weapon. When an argument turns into threats, or when someone uses a gun to intimidate, it’s not just anger, it’s a warning sign.
Every red flag matters. Before things get out of hand, follow your gut, ask for help, and know that there is support available. Your safety and your voice matter.
I am worried about someone
- Assess immediate risk + call 911 if urgent
- Document Incident and Threats
- Prepare your affidavit and evidence
- File for an Emergency Prohibition or Limitation