Firearms - Prevention
Firearms are often portrayed on television and in movies as glamorous. In
addition, the consequence of firing a firearm may not be portrayed as
seriously in the media, because children often see the "shot" actors alive
in other movies. Toy guns may add to a child's perception that real guns,
like toy guns, are harmless and fun. It is important that your child knows
the difference between a real gun and a toy gun.
Although the only sure way to keep your child safe from unintentional
firearm-related injury and death in your home is to remove all firearms
from the home, there are other ways to improve the safety of your child
around firearms.
- proper storage
Firearms should always be stored unloaded and separate from
ammunition. The firearm and ammunition should both be locked away and
out of reach of children.
- educate your child
Teaching your child the dangers of guns may help prevent
unintentional firearms-related injuries and death. A parent should teach
a child if he/she sees a firearm, to:
- not touch the firearm.
- leave the area.
- tell an adult immediately.
- check with neighbors
Even if your own home is free of firearms, your child may visit
another home where firearms are kept. Always check with neighbors,
friends, and relatives to make sure they safely store their firearms,
out of reach of children.
- other safety devices
Safety devices such as gun locks, lock boxes, and gun safes should
be used for every firearm in the house. Safety devices on firearms could
prevent most unintentional fatal shootings of children ages 5 and under.
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