We continue to raise awareness about Virginia’s Red Flag Law.
Virginia’s Emergency Substantial Risk Order (ESRO) law, commonly known as a Red Flag law, prevents individuals who show signs of being a threat to themselves or others from purchasing, possessing or transporting any kind of firearm.
By educating residents about this law, Fairfax County has processed 481 cases since 2020 and temporarily seized 947 firearms during that same period. These results reflect the county’s experience and responsible use of the law and our commitment to preventing harm before it happens.
Recently, updated campaign posters — in English, Spanish and Korean — were placed in the fleet of more than 340 Fairfax Connector buses, ensuring thousands of people will see the information each day.
"This law has been implemented in Fairfax County with great success," said Jeffrey C. McKay, chairman of Board of Supervisors. "And what we're doing today is making sure that we spread that message to every corner of the community so...they know what actions they can take to contribute to the overall safety of (the) county."
About the Red Flag Law
The Red Flag law prevents individuals who show signs of being a threat to themselves or others from purchasing, possessing or transporting any kind of firearm. It also provides the necessary procedural safeguards to ensure that no firearm is removed without due process while ensuring that gun tragedies are not repeated.
The order allows either law enforcement officers or commonwealth attorney to petition a judge of any court or magistrate if they have probable cause to believe that a person is a substantial risk to either themselves or others in the near future by either being in possession or acquiring a firearm. While they're under that order, they can't purchase, possess or transport any firearms.
While only a commonwealth attorney or a police officer can act on the report to seek or petition for an ESRO by going to a magistrate or a judge of any court, residents can call for help if they notice someone exhibiting warning signs such as exhibiting suicide risk, escalating unsafe behavior or issuing credible threats.
To request an ESRO, call the Police non-emergency line at 703-691-2131. If there is an immediate danger, call or text 9-1-1.
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