Securely storing firearms and teaching children about gun safety reduces the risk of firearm-related injuries and deaths.
The most suitable secure storage device is the one that best fits the needs of your household. Secure storage devices include: gun safes, locks, boxes, vehicle safes, gun case, trigger locks and cable locks.
Hiding firearms is not enough. Children are naturally curious, and studies show that 3 in 4 children know where firearms are hidden in the home, despite parents thinking otherwise. Even if you don’t own a firearm, talking to kids about gun safety can prevent serious risks if they visit homes with unsecured firearms.
Firearm Safety Tips for Families
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Always store firearms unloaded and secured with a cable lock, safe or lockbox. Keep keys or combinations out of children's reach.
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Store ammunition separately in a locked container for added protection. Even if a child finds the gun, they can't use it without the ammunition. Studies suggest that children are safest when firearms are stored securely, unloaded and separate from ammunition stored in a locked location.
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Regularly check that firearms are stored securely and unloaded, especially after use. Make firearm safety part of your family’s daily routine by discussing it with all household members and ensuring the same rules are followed when visiting other homes.
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Tell them that guns are very serious and if they see a gun, they should follow these three steps: Stop. Don’t touch it. Tell a safe adult right away. Assure children they will not get in trouble if they tell an adult they’ve seen a gun.
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Ask how their guns are secured, and if they’re unloaded and locked away. If you’re uncomfortable, offer to host at your house instead. Be sure to talk with your child about gun safety whenever they visit another home.