Most healthcare signs deal with making people safer or more comfortable. Whether that means reminding them to wash their hands, or showing them where the emergency exit is, or clearly delineating a men's and women's restroom, all of these signs are very important in creating the right atmosphere and keeping people as safe and secure as possible. Of course one of the most dangerous objects to introduce into any healthcare facility is a gun. Guns are strictly prohibited from hospital grounds, and for very good reason. However, not all people are aware of this, and some don't care. To combat this, and to keep other visitors vigilant and secure, it is very important to have plenty of clear and visible no gun signs in your healthcare facility.

One of the biggest challenges when it comes to keeping guns out of healthcare facilities is concealed weaponry. Not only can you not always see it, oftentimes people who carry them have a permit to do so. However, in a hospital, that right is revoked. That's why HSI makes very clear, easy to see and understand signs that make sure patrons know there are no guns allowed. We make signs that go even further, letting people know that concealed weapons, even with a permit, are not allowed. Some people are surprised or offended by this rule, but it is very important when it comes to keeping facilities safe and secure, and making all patrons and visitors feel comfortable.

There are two kinds of no gun signs, each of which should be present in any healthcare facility. The first kind very clearly spells out, in written words, that there are no guns allowed, of any kind in any place within hospital walls. These can also include a picture of a gun with a red circle and slash over it, making it clear what the message means. A popular and effective sign is one that reads "Concealed firearms are prohibited in this facility." This makes it very clear to all patrons that no gun of any kind, concealed or not, licensed or not, is allowed. That makes them feel safer, and it makes the owner of a gun aware of what they are not allowed to do.

The second type of no gun signs use only the picture. In large, bold signs, a gun is circled and slashed through with thick red lines. The meaning, again, is crystal clear; no guns allowed in this healthcare facility. The bolder, more aggressive picture signs are very effective as well, and they speak as clearly to English speakers as they do to non-English speakers. If a picture says a thousand words, then this sign is positioned to be a very effective deterrent and a way to make visitors feel safe.

HSI is committed to making healthcare signage that serves the administration, the patients, and the visitors. These no gun signs are just one more way we achieve that goal.