Talking to your children about firearm safety is essential, regardless of whether you own a gun. We cannot keep our children unaware of firearms while allowing them to visit other people’s homes or go out alone.
Here are three tips to help you teach your children about firearm safety:
First
Teach your child the Eddie Eagle Gunsafe Program Rules in case they find an unattended firearm:
STOP! Do Not Touch! Run Away! Tell A Grown-up!
Second
Always review the firearms safety rules, especially if your children go to the range with you and are used to handling a firearm. Some of them are:
- Never touch a firearm without adult supervision.
- Always keep the gun pointed in a safe direction
- Always keep the finger off the trigger until ready to fire
- Always keep the firearm unloaded until ready to use.
Third
Do not avoid conversations about firearms with your children. You are their best source of information. If you’re not a gun owner or are unfamiliar with firearms, seek professional help at your local gun range for additional educational resources. Addressing your children’s questions and concerns can prevent them from seeking answers from the wrong people or in unsuitable places.
All in all, communication is your best tool. Visit the Eddie Eagle website. eddieeagle.nra.org for more videos and information about Children’s safety rules.