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by Alicia Wanek
Talking About Gun Safety
Discussing firearms often ignites controversy. Regardless of our political views, we share a common goal: ensuring the safety of our children. It’s a sobering fact that guns rank as the second leading cause of death among kids. Conversations around how to protect them in places like schools, movie theaters, and concerts extend far beyond what can be addressed in this context. However, many may be shocked to learn that one of the riskiest environments for children might be their own homes.
The Family Fire Crisis
Every day, an alarming eight children unintentionally encounter loaded, unlocked firearms at home—a phenomenon called “family fire.” To raise awareness about the hazards posed by unsecured guns, the Ad Council, in partnership with the Brady Center to Prevent Gun Violence (named for Jim Brady, who was severely injured by a gunshot during an assassination attempt on President Ronald Reagan), has initiated a new public service campaign.
According to the American Public Health Association, “Eight kids shot a day is a public health crisis.” They emphasize their commitment to family safety and urge anyone living with a firearm in the home to practice responsible gun storage. It’s estimated that around 4.6 million children can access unlocked and loaded guns, but ensuring that guns are locked and unloaded can reduce the risk of “family fire” incidents among children by 73%.
Communicating About Gun Safety
Even if you do not personally own a gun, it’s crucial to heed the message of this campaign. With over a third of Americans owning firearms, your children may visit homes where guns are present. It’s important for all parents to discuss gun safety with their children and to inquire with the parents of their friends about the presence of firearms and their storage methods. In matters of your child’s safety, appearing pushy or intrusive is minor compared to the potential risks involved. Responsible gun owners will likely appreciate your concerns.
In situations where parents are divorced, these safety inquiries also apply when kids visit their ex-spouse’s home. Collin County District Judge John Roach states, “I have handled numerous divorce cases where parents disagree about firearms in each other’s homes. The judge must then determine how to address gun issues in those homes.” Ideally, parents should reach amicable agreements without needing judicial intervention.
The Link to Adolescent Suicides
The challenge of “family fire” is significant, but an additional concerning statistic further stresses the importance of securing firearms properly. In the United States, eight out of ten firearm-related suicides involving adolescents are committed using guns owned by family members, frequently parents. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among youth, and nearly half of these tragic events involve firearms. In 2012 alone, over 2,000 young people aged 10–19 in the U.S. took their lives.
A study published in 2015 in JAMA Psychiatry, which surveyed 10,123 adolescents aged 13-18, revealed that a third reported living in homes with guns. Among these, 41 percent said they had easy access and could fire the weapon. Alarmingly, this statistic was consistent even among teens with mental health issues or suicidal tendencies. Research like this underscores the importance of the Brady Center’s messaging. In an effort to counteract this trend, several suicide prevention organizations have begun distributing free gun locks. When a state representative from Utah discovered his district had the fourth-highest suicide rate in the nation, he introduced legislation to improve awareness and distribute gun locks. Originally a state initiative, the Utah Suicide Prevention Coalition, along with organizations like the National Guard, the National Rifle Association, and local gun stores, has provided over 40,000 gun locks. Additionally, through their Lock and Talk Virginia program, the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services is educating the public on restricting access to firearms and medications during mental health crises while also offering free gun locks and locked medication storage solutions to lessen suicide rates.
The Need for Legal Regulations
Surprisingly, regulations ensuring firearms are stored securely are not always legally required. Texas is among the 14 states that enforce gun storage regulations. Judge Roach highlights, “In Texas, a parent or caregiver can face criminal charges if a child accesses an improperly secured firearm and is injured—whether themselves or someone else. Serious injuries or fatalities can lead to imprisonment. While I haven’t seen any cases where parents were charged, I firmly believe responsible gun ownership is vital.”
A Personal Reflection
After my second-grade year, a tragic incident occurred when one of my classmates was unintentionally killed by his older brother, who also attended our school. The family moved shortly afterward. As a child, I often pondered the burden of guilt that must have weighed on the older sibling for causing Brett’s death. With age, I now recognize the real anguish likely belonged to the parents who failed to secure that weapon away from young children. There is little justification for not keeping firearms locked, unloaded, and out of reach of minors. Judge Roach reminds us, “Gun safety should not be a political concern. Regardless of your stance on gun laws, the focus here is on responsible parenting.”
For more information on family fire and proper gun storage, visit www.endfamilyfire.org.
Guidelines from the Brady Center to Prevent Gun Violence for Gun Owners:
1 | Never Together. Always store your gun separate from its ammunition.
2 | Why risk it? Use a gun lock. Ensure it is the right size and style for your firearm.
3 | Safe Storage. Keep your gun in an inaccessible place, secured under lock and key.
4 | Talk. Teach. Repeat. Engage your family in discussions about gun safety.
5 | Consider alternative home security measures such as alarm systems, security cameras, or a guard dog.
