Wednesday, April 6, 2011

Protect Your Children from Guns

By Bryce Jackson


A gun can guard your home from bad people but it can also maim or kill the one you love if you are not careful. Many victims are children who don't take guns seriously and can hurt themselves. That's why gun safety should be practiced in every home, more so if you have children.

To prevent gun-related injuries and deaths, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends removing guns from homes. But this may not work for all families where a member is a hunter, a police officer or in a profession where guns are required.

Be aware, however, that many gunshot injuries occur when kids discover loaded guns at home. Since keeping a gun in the house is a serious decision, it is the owner's responsibility to keep it locked in a safe place where kids can't play with it. You can do this with a gun safe. This device will keep your guns away from curious children. Choose one where you can store your gun or firearms properly. Keep the safe locked at all times and hide the key where your kids can't find it. If you use a combination safe, never divulge the code to your kids. Project ChildSafe also provides free gun locks at special fairs or they can be picked up at your local police station.

Educate your children about the dangers of guns. Tell them that you have guns at home but they should never play with them. Never let your child handle a gun even in jest. Don't allow them to touch the gun if you're not with them. A loaded gun in the house is like a ticking time bomb that can explode anytime. Diffuse the bomb with proper gun storage before it's too late!

Eddie Eagle, a program sponsored by the National Rifle Association, says kids should do the following when they find a gun: stop, don't touch, leave the area and tell an adult. This is sensible so tell your children to do the same. Not getting the gun is important but they should also get away and find an adult. This will give the latter a chance to get the gun before it does any harm. Owning a gun is no laughing matter, so don't kid yourself into thinking that your kid can't find it if you keep it in a safe place.

The information found within this article are recommended uses and tips for firearms. If you have any questions about gun safety or for complete, accurate information regarding weapon safety, please visit the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives at http://www.atf.gov.




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