Expert Voices - PAX: Real Solutions to Gun Violence

The Facts, the Question, the Answer

The Facts:

Over 3,500 people under the age of 20 are killed by gun violence very year. That means that every 24 hours another 10 children and teens die from guns. Often, gun violence among youth, including accidents, suicides and homicides, occurs because a child had access to a firearm that was brought into the home by an adult. Over 40% of American homes with children have a gun and many are left unlocked and loaded. Unfortunately, many parents think that a gun in the home is protective rather than dangerous. In reality, a gun in the home is 22 times more likely to kill or injure a friend or family member than an intruder.

The Question:

How can I protect my child from the risks associated with guns in someone else's home? Unfortunately, research has demonstrated that just talking to kids about the dangers of firearms is not enough. Kids are naturally curious and naturally fascinated with guns, so if there is a gun accessible, there is a good chance kids will find it and play with it. As a parent you must do more.

The Answer:

ASK! If there is not a gun in the home, that's one less thing you have to worry about. If there is a gun, make sure that the gun is stored unloaded and locked, ideally in a gun safe, with ammunition locked separately. Hiding guns is not enough. There are countless tragic stories of kids finding guns that parents thought were well hidden. If you have any doubts about the safety of someone's home, you can invite the children to play at your house.

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