Firearms are a hot button issue. While opinions vary, there is one thing that I think everyone can agree on. Gun safety is imperative. While some people would prefer that firearms were completely banned, the Second Amendment does not allow free people to be disarmed. Every adult American citizen that has not been convicted of a felony has a right to keep and bear arms, which “shall not be violated.” However, we must remember that along with rights come responsibilities.
Since about half of the homes in this country contain firearms, safety should be at the heart of the debate. Guns aren’t going away, but we can help insure that they are stored and used responsibly. It is paramount for people who live with children, and even people who have children visiting their homes, to protect those children from guns.
There are many firearm safety devices available today, quite a few that cost very little and are easy to use. There are also safety training classes available for adults and safety courses for children.
Firearm Inserts
An insert is one tool that promotes gun safety. Ammo-Safe firearm inserts were developed by law enforcement officers for safety during training exercises. The insert prevents a round from entering the chamber, to keep shots from being fired. They are simple to use and they only cost between three and five dollars.
Trigger Locks
Trigger locks were all the rage at one time, but many have been proven to be less than safe. In some cases, the design is just too simple and children can figure out how to disengage the lock. In other instances, improper use was the issue. A trigger lock should not be used on a loaded firearm, as it may actually cause the gun to fire. Trigger locks have been studied extensively and certain models have been approved by the DOJ. See the list of DOJ approved firearm safety devices. If you own firearms, please make sure the devices you choose are safe.
Gun Safes vs. Gun Cabinets
Gun cabinets are not as secure as gun safes. Many are used for display and some even have glass doors. This type of cabinet is not recommended since it can more easily be broken into. It is certainly not the type of container recommended for a home with children. Gun safes, on the other hand, are often constructed of heavy steel, bolted to the floor or wall, and they use combination locks, or key locks, some that require two separate locks to be unlocked by key to provide better security.
Educational Programs
Inquire about gun safety programs at your children’s schools. The Eddie Eagle Gun Safe Program has been used to teach nearly twenty million elementary school children about gun safety since the late 1980’s. The maxim of the program is, “If you see a gun, STOP! Don’t Touch. Leave the Area. Tell an Adult.” The program doesn’t promote gun ownership or gun control, just safety. The mascot, Eddie the Eagle, is never seen shooting a gun and images of the mascot cannot be used where guns are present. While the program was created by the National Rifle Association (NRA) in conjunction with psychologists, teachers, and law enforcement, the program does not promote or even mention the NRA. Learn more about the Eddie Eagle program. Even if you aren’t a member of the NRA, this program is a great service to children and communities and has been endorsed by The National Safety Council, the Department of Justice (DOJ), many state governors, and the National Sheriff’s Association. The fees are minimal and grant funding may be available to sponsor this program in your community.
Americans for Gun Safety Foundation
For comprehensive information on various gun safety techniques and devices, please visit the AGS Foundation website.