Abstract: A container for storing items, such as guns and knives in a secure environment so that such items are not accessible to small children. The container has an open top and a cover member which is slidable along the major axis of the container to selectively open and close the container. A child safety latch is provided to prevent the cover member from being moved substantially from a closed position until the latch is disengaged. An alarm system is also provided so that if the cover member is moved a substantial distance from the closed position, an audible alarm will sound to indicate that the container has been opened. An electric switch is positioned inside the container to enable one to selectively activate and to deactivate the alarm as desired. The container according to the present invention permits an authorized person to gain quick access to the contents to the container when desired, while preventing children from getting access to the contents.