If you are worried that someone with a gun might hurt themselves or others, you don’t have to wait for something bad to happen. Canada’s Red Flag laws allow you to take action before it’s too late.

These laws give everyday people, not just police, the power to ask a court to temporarily remove or restrict someone’s access to firearms if there’s a real safety risk. This process is meant to prevent harm and save lives.

Here’s a simple guide to help you understand how it works and what to do.

1. Know When to Apply

You can apply for a Red Flag order when someone who has access to a firearm is showing warning signs of danger. Some examples include:

• Making threats involving a gun.
  
• Acting violently or aggressively.
  
• Talking about suicide or showing signs of hopelessness.
  
• Struggling with mental health or substance use while having access to weapons.
  
• Ignoring restraining or protection orders.
  
• Showing controlling or abusive behaviour in a relationship.
  

If your gut tells you something isn’t right, it’s better to act early.

2. Understand the Two Types of Orders

Under the law, there are two main kinds of Red Flag orders you can apply for:

• Emergency Prohibition Order (EPO):
  This order allows police to remove firearms right away from someone who poses an immediate risk. It also stops them from using or handling any weapons while the order is active.
• Emergency Limitation on Access Order (ELAO):
  This order stops someone from buying, borrowing, or getting access to new firearms for example, by suspending their firearm licence. Both orders are temporary, but they can be extended if the danger continues.

3. Who Can Apply

The great thing about this law is that anyone can apply, not just the police.

You can make an application if you are:

• A family member, roommate, or friend.
• A neighbour or co-worker who has noticed worrying behaviour.
• A healthcare worker, counsellor, or social worker.
• A community advocate, victim support worker, or teacher.

If you believe someone’s access to guns puts them or others at risk, you have the legal right to ask for help.

4. How to Apply

Here is a step by step outline of how the process works:

Step 1: Contact your local provincial court or legal aid clinic to ask how to file for a Red Flag order.

Step 2: Fill out the application form. You’ll need to explain what makes you think the person is dangerous and give examples of recent incidents or behaviours.

Step 3: The court will review your request quickly, often within hours or days if it’s an emergency.

Step 4: If approved, the police will be told to carry out the order. They can remove any firearms or stop the person from getting new ones.

You don’t have to face this alone. If you’re not sure how to start, local legal aid offices, victim support centres, or community organizations can help guide you through it.

5. What Happens After the Order

Once the order is in place, the person will not be allowed to own, use, or buy guns for a set period of time. During this time, police, mental health professionals, or social workers can step in to offer help and support. When the order expires, the court will review the situation. If the risk is still there, it can be extended.

6. Why It Matters

Taking action early can prevent tragedy. Many cases of gun violence, especially in homes and relationships show warning signs long before something happens. Red Flag orders give families and communities a safe, legal way to respond before it’s too late. Remember, you are not getting someone in trouble you are giving them and others a chance to stay safe and get help.

If you or someone you know feels unsafe, please reach out. Help is available 24/7.

Emergency (immediate danger): 911

Talk 4 Healing (for Indigenous Women): 1-855-554-HEAL
Kids Help Phone (24/7) — 1-800-668-6868 (youth) and text/chat options. 

BC CYAC NetworkVancouver Coastal Health – Forensic Nursing Service (VGH) — confidential medical care and evidence collection (with or without police report) within 7 days of an assault. vsdvalliance.org
Salal Sexual Violence Support Centre (formerly WAVAW) — 24-hour crisis line, hospital accompaniment, counselling. 24-h line: 604-255-6344. NNEDV

Chimo Community Services (Richmond) — STV individual counselling; Mandarin/Cantonese available. 604-279-7077. chimoservices.com
KUU-US Crisis Line (Indigenous-specific, 24/7) — Adults/Elders lines and toll-free access. Hope for Wellness Helpline
Visit WOMEN-ALERT.CA/Resources for easy-to-read, plain language guides about red flag laws, women’s safety, and firearm prevention.