Firearm injuries and deaths in the United States have continued to climb. Firearms are the leading cause of death in children and teens in the U.S. Fourteen children die from firearm injuries every day.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports the firearm homicide rate in 2020 was the highest recorded in more than 25 years.
While the public is divided on regulating access to firearms, one practical safety measure all firearm owners can take is to properly secure firearms at home.
University Health and our partners formed GunSafety4Bexar.com to educate the public about safe storage and provide free firearm locks.
In the video above, Mandy Fultz with Safe Kids San Antonio demonstrates how to use locks and safes to prevent firearms from being misused.
Tips to Store Firearms and Ammunition Safely
A study previously published in Hospital Pediatrics found that 39% of parents falsely believe their kids did not know where their firearms are stored, and 22% believe their kids never touched a firearm.
It is important to safely store firearms if you keep them in the house.
- Store firearms in a locked location, unloaded, out of the reach and sight of children.
- Store ammunition in a separate locked location, out of the reach and sight of children.
- Keep the keys and combinations hidden.
- When a firearm is not being stored, it should be on your person and in your immediate control at all times.
- Make sure all firearms are equipped with effective, child-resistant gun locks.
- If a visitor has a firearm in a backpack, briefcase, handbag or an unlocked car, provide them with a locked place to hold it while they are in your home.
- Never leave firearms on a nightstand, table or other place where a child can gain access as it may lead to injuries and fatalities.
