It’s a difficult topic that all gun owners should have – talking with their children about firearm safety. Harvard Health reports that during the summer, children and teens are most at risk for firearm injuries as they are home from school. The same report mentions that three-out-of-four kids know where parents are keeping their guns, even when parents think they don’t.
For this reason, it’s not only important but vital that if you’re a firearm owner you talk to your children about gun safety.
At C2 Tactical we have indoor gun ranges at both the Tempe and Scottsdale locations and prioritize safety courses such as firearm safety courses, non-lethal courses and family firearm safety.
These are tips from our self-defense experts to keep children safe this summer.
How to properly store firearms
Studies found that accidents between children and firearms happen when guns are not kept in a secure location. A handgun should never be kept in a bedroom drawer if parents have children – not ever!
Store firearms in a gun safe or a locked safe of any kind. Be sure this safe is out of reach of any children in the house, and a different lock put on each gun. Be sure you are also mindful of the safety latch.
Lock ammunition separately
For added protective measures, experts say that ammunition should be stored in a different locked location than firearms.
Make sure that stored firearms are always unloaded. Having the ammunition in a different spot helps to keep children safe. If for some reason they should ever find a way of opening the safe, they will not be able to load the firearms.
Have an honest talk with your children
The most important measure to take is to talk with your children about firearm safety. Let your children know that firearms and ammunition are not to be touched and have this discussion in a focused and quiet environment.
Set a good example for your child and do not toy around with guns or make them seem like a joke. Firearm safety is a serious responsibility that every gun owner needs to undertake. Also be sure that your partner is on the same page as you. Are you both sharing the same advice to your child? Are you both taking the same safety measures?
Remember that this is not a lecture. It’s an honest discussion and you should encourage any questions from your child. You want them to feel that they can always talk to you when it comes to firearms. This ensures their safety because they will always come to talk to you first.
Some parents think that the subject of firearms shouldn’t be broached at all, but this is much more dangerous than talking with your kids. Be sure to discuss this topic as early and often as possible to help children retain the information.
For more information on firearm safety courses, or firearms, visit c2tactical.com.
Vince Vasquez is managing member of C2 Tactical in the Valley.
