Firearm injuries are now the leading cause of death for U.S. children and teens. Firearm injury has a very high case fatality rate. This means that when a gun is fired, death is common. In fact, about 1 in every 4 firearm injuries results in death.
Children and teens who survive a firearm injury can be left with lasting physical injuries, ongoing medical care needs, and psychological trauma. The best approach is to prevent the firearm injury.
Find 5 firearm safety tips, below, that can help you protect your child.
Firearm emergencies: what to do if a child is shot
Call 911 or ask someone nearby to call. Ensure that the firearm has been secured or is no longer a danger.
Then apply lifesaving measures. This includes applying direct pressure to gunshot wounds, applying a tourniquet (go to Stop the Bleed for training) or by starting cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
Once emergency responders arrive, they will take over and take the child to the nearest trauma center.
5 ways to prevent firearm injures & deaths
1. Secure your firearms.
When not under an authorized user’s active control, all firearms should be kept locked away from children by using one or more of the following: trigger lock, cable lock, gun safe, or firearm cabinet safe. Firearms should never be left unattended (like on the top of a nightstand, resting in a purse or bag, left in a drawer or stored in a closet or attic).
2. Ask about safe firearm storage.
If your child is visiting another home for any length of time, ask about firearm storage. With firearm injury the leading cause of death for children of all ages, it is important to check before allowing your child to spend time in another home. (Also see, "5 Questions to Ask Before a Playdate.")
3. Avoid alcohol & drug use.
Nobody should ever have a firearm under their active control when they have been drinking or using impairing substances.
4. Remember that firearms training has limitations.
All adults in a home with firearms should take a firearm safety training course. Firearm owners should understand that teaching children about firearm safety is not an effective way to prevent firearm injuries. Children do not have the level of brain development required to understand the risk of firearms.
5. Report family violence.
Women are most often the victims of firearm violence in the home, along with children. Seek help by reaching out to your local domestic violence hotline or call the national domestic violence hotline at 1- 800-799-7233. They can help people navigate options for them and their children, including the use of laws in many states that authorize the removal of firearms in abusive situations.
Remember
Don't hesitate to talk with your pediatrician about gun safety for kids.
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