Everyday 10 American Children ages 18 and under are killed nationwide in gun
accidents, suicides and homicides. Many more are severely wounded or maimed.
Gunshot wounds to children ages 16 and under have increased 300% in major
urban areas since 1986. 60% of teen deaths by suicide involve the use of a gun, nearly 3000 teens use
handguns to commit suicide every year. Nationwide an estimated 400,00 youngsters carried handguns to school in 1987,
in Baltimore half the males reported having taken a gun to school. We cannot gun proof our children and teenagers, children are playful and active,
teenagers are curious and impulsive. Such healthy traits when mixed with firearms
can be deadly. These tips prepared by Officer Charles J. Bury Jr. Store all firearms unloaded in a securely locked container, only adults should know
where the container is located. Store guns and ammunition in separate locked containers. For a revolver place a padlock around the top strap of the weapon to prevent the
cylinder from closing or use a trigger lock. For an automatic handgun use a trigger
lock. When handling or cleaning a gun, never leave it unattended, even for a moment. It
should be in your view at all times. Even if you don't own a gun you should check with other parents where your
children frequent, who might own a gun, to be sure safety precautions are followed. Parents should discuss firearms safety with their children and tell them what to do
if they encounter a firearm.
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