Teach Your KIDS FIREARMS SAFETY
Do you have firearms in your home? Your vehicle? Did you teach your kids about firearms safety? How about that concealed-carry handgun in your purse? What about firearms at your child’s friend’s house?
Bottom line: It is your responsibility to keep those firearms out of the hands of those not authorized, especially children! It is, I believe, also a responsibility to have a discussion with your child about firearm safety.
They need to understand what to do if they find a gun when not in your presence, such as at a friend’s house.
This past week, a five-year-old accidentally shot and killed herself with a handgun found in her home. This tragic story occurs too often, and one time is too much.
Even though most of you reading this have an understanding of gun safety and responsibility, the topic can never be overemphasized. When I provide firearms training, no matter the audience or experience level, one of the first things covered is the firearms safety rules.
I expect them to be adhered to, both on and off the range! When it comes to the safety of children, there can be no exceptions.
Not sure how to talk to kids about firearms, or what educational programs are available? Let’s take a look at a few of these options.
Hunter Education Programs
These state-run programs are an excellent way to get the gun safety message across to kids, and most allow for parents or guardians to take the course along with the child.
Even if you or the child are not hunters, the overlying theme of these programs is firearms safety.
National Shooting Sports Foundation
This national organization is dedicated to the “Promotion, Protection, and preservation” of shooting sports.
They have an excellent program, “Project Child Safe” that is dedicated to children and firearms safety.
National Rifle Association
The organization has been around for decades and is committed to preserving gun rights and firearms safety.
The resources available to the public for gun safety programs are too many to mention here. However, a good place to start is the “Eddie Eagle Gunsafe Program”
Project Appleseed
Another great organization with lots of educational opportunities for gun safety and offers shooting programs with the unique twist of American Heritage all rolled into one program.
These are but a few of the programs available to you and your children. I mention these only because I have had hands-on experience with them throughout my career.
Please take gun safety seriously, for your sake and for those whom you are responsible.
Did you like this blog? You might also be interested in…
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest!
Disclaimer: All content on this site is for informational purposes only. Please read our full disclaimer here.
Editor's Note: This article was originally published on May 25, 2016, and has been updated for quality and relevancy.