03/29/2024
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By Nicole Smith

Gun safety. Something that all responsible gun owners should practice, ESPECIALLY, if there are children in the home. Ensuring that all family members understand how a gun should and should not be used is essential in making sure no accidents occur.

When it comes to our kids, we want nothing more than for them to be safe and healthy. If a curious child finds a gun, it can lead to tragedy. Here are some ways you can talk to your children about firearms and what they need to stay safe:

  • Remind them never to touch any gun or bullets.
  • Explain the difference between toy guns and real ones.
  • Stress the fact that guns can kill and encourage them to make safe decisions.
  • Encourage children to tell you if they ever feel unsafe at home or at school.
  • Help choose programs, movies, and games that are non-violent. Talk to them about violence in television, movies, and videogames and prompt them to discuss their feelings.

Lead by example. Always demonstrate safe gun practices your children can observe and learn from. Before they visit a new friend’s house, check with the parents to see if they keep a gun in the home.  

 

One of the common causes of youth handgun death is suicide. Be on the lookout for signs of depression, and seek help if you become at all concerned.

Proper gun storage is another important aspect of gun safety. Here are some rules to follow:

  • Keep all guns and ammunition out of the reach of children, untrained adults, and those who would use them improperly.
  • Always keep your guns locked in a gun safe that cannot be easily broken into or taken away. If one is not available, use a cable lock or trigger lock (one that goes behind the trigger is preferred) and store the guns out of the reach of those who should not have access to them.
  • Keep the keys to gun safes and gun locks hidden and out of the reach of those who should not have access to them.
  • Store your guns unloaded and with the safety on.
  • Keep the guns dry, cleaned, and oiled while in storage.
  • Store guns and ammunition in a dry, cool place and away from heat and fire.

We all want the world to be a safer place. Practicing gun safety is one thing we can do to help make that happen. Here are the twelve golden rules for safe gun handling:

  1. Always treat the gun as if it is loaded.
  2. Always keep the gun pointed in a safe direction.
  3. Always keep your finger straight and off the trigger until you are ready to shoot.
  4. Always keep the gun unloaded until you are ready to use it.
  5. Never point the gun at anything you don’t intend to shoot.
  6. Be sure of your target and what is beyond it.
  7. Learn the mechanical and handling characteristics of the gun you are using.
  8. Always use proper ammunition.
  9. Be sure the barrel is clear of obstructions before loading and shooting.
  10. If your gun fails to fire when the trigger is pulled, hold your shooting position for several seconds; then, with the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, carefully unload the gun.
  11. Don’t rely on the gun’s safety to keep it from firing.
  12. Be aware of your surroundings when handling guns so you don’t trip or lose your balance and accidentally point and/or fire the gun at anyone or anything.

What it all boils down to is that we want to protect our friends, family, and community. Follow and share these rules and tips to help create a place where we can all feel a little more confident in the safety and well-being of ourselves and our loved ones.

Related article:

https://bladencounty.org/bladen-county-law-enforcement-officers-association-conceal-carry-class-2/

 

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