Tips for Parents
It is normal for young children to be curious and explore in drawers, cabinets and closets. They are also fascinated with firearms. A recent study showed that three out of four children who are 8 to 12 years old will handle a firearm they find. About half of those will pull the trigger.
Preteens and teens may be attracted to firearms and see firearms as symbols of power.
- Tips for safe firearm storage
- ASK the question: “If you have a firearm in you home, is it stored locked and unloaded?”
- Talk with your child
Tips for safe firearm storage
Safe storage of firearms works to protect everyone in the home. Here are suggestions to keep your family safer.
- Store firearms unloaded and locked.
- To properly store firearms, use a gun safe, gun lock box, a trigger lock or a chamber lock.
- Store and lock ammunition in a separate place.
- Remove firearms from your home if you have a depressed or suicidal family member.
- Ask family and friends to use these safe storage steps.
ASK the question: “If you have a firearm in you home, is it stored locked and unloaded?”
Before you send your child to someone's house, ask if firearms in the home are stored unloaded and locked. Ask if the amunition is stored separately. Ask about shotguns and rifles too, not just handguns.
If you have doubts about the safety of someone else's home, invite the children to play at your home instead.
Learn more at PAX: The ASK Campaign.
Tips to make asking easier
Many of us feel awkward asking other people how they handle firearm safety. Here are some tips to help:
- Ask about firearms along with other things you discuss before your child goes to play at someone's home such as seat belt use, allergies and animals.
- Present your concerns with respect.
- Work through groups. Introduce the ASK concept through your child's preschool, childcare or local PTA.
Finding the right words can be hard. Here's a start.
“I don't mean any disrespect, but knowing how curious my child can be, I feel I have to ask this question.”
“I hope you don't mind me asking if you have a firearm in your home and if it is properly stored?”
“Mom, Dad, _________, this is awkward for me and I mean no disrespect. I am concerned Susie will find one of the firearms in your home when we visit. Do you keep them locked up with the ammunition stored separately?”
Talk with your child
Talk with your children about the risk of firearm injury in places they may visit or play.
Teach your child if she finds a firearm to leave it alone and let an adult know right away.