I found weapons or drugs in their room

Discovering weapons or drugs in your home creates immediate legal and safety concerns. Your response must protect your family's safety and legal position while handling the situation appropriately.

Immediate response to weapons:

• Secure the weapon safely immediately
• Consider whether law enforcement notification is required
• Document discovery with photos if safe to do so
• Check local laws about weapon possession by someone with addiction
• Remove all weapons from the home environment

Immediate response to drugs:

• Do not handle substances directly
• Photograph evidence if legally advisable
• Consult local laws about reporting requirements
• Consider whether amounts suggest dealing activity
• Protect yourself from legal liability

1. Ensure immediate safety by securing dangerous items

1. Consult local law enforcement about reporting requirements

1. Document everything for potential legal protection

1. Establish clear consequence: "Illegal items in our home means you cannot live here"

1. Follow through consistently regardless of promises

Denial, minimization, promises to dispose of items. Focus on family safety and legal protection, not addiction arguments. Many families find that clear consequences about illegal activity motivate treatment consideration more than any amount of discussion.

911 if weapons create immediate danger

Local police non-emergency line for guidance on reporting requirements

East Point Behavioral Health: (855) 887-6237 - Family guidance after resolution