In a heartbreaking incident on March 12 of this year, two innocent children lost their lives to gun violence. One was just seven years old, while the other was only a year old. On that same day, a 14-year-old was shot in the leg but survived. Tragically, none of these children were victims of violent crime or intentional harm; they were all casualties of unsecured firearms in their homes. The 7-year-old from Pineville, LA was shot accidentally by his 12-year-old brother, while the 1-year-old from Montgomery, AL was killed when his 2-year-old sibling discovered a firearm in their parents’ bedroom.
These two lives are gone forever, and the surviving siblings will carry the weight of this tragedy for the rest of their lives. Unfortunately, such incidents are not isolated. According to Everytown, unintentional shootings involving children occur approximately every 34 hours in the United States.
Who is Accountable?
So, who is accountable for these tragedies? Can we blame a 12-year-old for a momentary lapse in judgment? Certainly not a toddler. The responsibility lies with us, the adults, to keep our children safe. The common thread in these incidents is the presence of easily accessible, loaded firearms.
No one believes that such a tragedy could occur in their own home, yet it does—often to well-meaning parents who love their children and strive to protect them. These parents may underestimate the risks associated with having unsecured firearms, believing that the need for self-defense against intruders outweighs the potential for their children to accidentally harm themselves or others.
The Myth Behind Defensive Gun Ownership
However, statistical evidence reveals a different truth. As highlighted in “The Myth Behind Defensive Gun Ownership”, children are far more likely to be injured or killed by firearms than their parents are to successfully use those weapons for self-defense. These are typically law-abiding citizens who insist their children wear seat belts, eat healthy meals, and practice safe behaviors. Yet, due to the misguided belief that their children are capable of understanding gun safety, they end up facing a devastating reality—one of loss and regret.
A Personal Stance
This is a risk I refuse to accept. Living in a region where hunting is prevalent and gun ownership is common, I cannot allow my children to play at your home unless you securely lock away your firearms. I support the right to own hunting rifles and acknowledge the importance of responsible gun ownership. However, I insist that guns must be stored properly—out of reach, unloaded, and in a secure safe.
It doesn’t matter if your 12-year-old is well-versed in gun safety. While it is commendable that you have educated them about the importance of respecting firearms, it is insufficient. Kids are naturally curious and resourceful; they can find hidden items, no matter how well concealed. Even if my children understand the dangers of firearms, what about their friends? Are they aware of the risks?
The Reality of Children’s Awareness
Children often do not tell the truth, especially when they fear consequences. This is evidenced by how my 5-year-old once denied sneaking cookies, despite the chocolate evidence. Research from Giffords Law Center indicates that many children, even those whose parents believe they do not know the location of firearms, are aware of where the guns are and may even handle them. In fact, studies have shown that 73% of children aged nine and under know where their parents keep their firearms, and 36% admitted to having touched them.
Recognizing that we cannot control every hazard in life, we still send our children to school and allow them to participate in various activities. However, one aspect where we can exert control is ensuring that my children only play in homes where firearms are safely secured. A gun-safe home means storing guns unloaded and locked away, with children having no access to the key or combination. Ammunition must also be stored separately and securely.
How to Discuss Firearm Safety
If you feel uneasy about discussing firearm safety, resources like BeSMARTforKids.org can provide guidance on how to inquire about gun safety in a respectful manner. You can ask questions such as, “If there are guns in your home, are they locked and out of reach of children?” It’s important to verify that kids do not have access to the firearms.
Statistics That Matter
The statistics are alarming: since the beginning of 2018, 52 children in America have been victims of accidental shootings. I will do everything in my power to prevent my children from becoming the next casualties. According to Giffords Law Center, a staggering 89% of accidental shooting deaths among children occur in their homes, primarily when children are left unsupervised with unsecured loaded firearms. This statistic should compel every gun owner to reassess their safety practices.
A Non-Negotiable Requirement
As a parent, I appreciate the time and care you provide when you host my child. I am grateful for any snacks or activities you offer. However, the one non-negotiable requirement for my child to play at your home is that your guns must be securely locked away. Without this assurance, my children cannot play.
For additional information on proper gun storage, visit Everytown.org for valuable safety tips. This issue demands our attention and action; it is our responsibility to keep all children safe.
Conclusion
In summary, the presence of unsecured firearms poses a significant risk to children. Responsible gun ownership requires securing firearms in a way that keeps them inaccessible to children. By taking these precautions, we can protect not only our children but also their friends, ensuring a safer environment for everyone.