So, don't hide. Be loud and proud. "Yes, I own guns. Handguns. Assault rifles. Shotguns. What of it?"
Strip this 'boating accident' nonsense out of your vocabulary. This is the language of fear. Don't be afraid. Society is more support of gun rights now than at any time in the last 30 years. Take advantage of that. Make it known you aren't ashamed or afraid to admit you own weapons. You can't hide, and you shouldn't have to, so instead, help make firearms more socially acceptable.
My license plate states (to the state) that I am a gun owner.