Gun violence continues to be the leading cause of death for American children, urging parents to take proactive measures to protect their kids

Florida – In recent years, the alarming trend of gun-related deaths among children and teenagers has reached an unbearable high in the United States. For the second consecutive year, firearms have become the leading cause of death for American children and teens, surpassing car accidents, illness, poisoning, and drowning. With this heart-wrenching statistic in mind, it’s clear that more must be done to protect our children from gun violence. On average, 22 children and teens are shot every day, and 5.4 million children live in homes with unlocked guns, putting them at risk for accidental shootings, suicide, and other tragedies. While the news surrounding children and guns can feel overwhelming, there are steps we can take to help keep our kids safe.

The Importance of Safe Storage

One of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of gun-related injury and death in homes with children is through safe storage practices. According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, safe firearm storage—such as keeping guns unloaded, locked, and separate from ammunition—has been proven to significantly reduce the likelihood of unintentional shootings and suicide attempts among children and adolescents. The research reveals that homes where guns are properly stored are less likely to experience these tragic events.

Specifically, studies show that keeping a gun locked, unloaded, and storing ammunition separately offers protective effects against firearm injuries in homes with children. The research also indicates that the presence of an unlocked gun significantly increases the risk of homicide, suicide, and fatalities in domestic violence situations. Homes with unlocked firearms are twice as likely to experience a homicide, three times more likely to experience a suicide, and five times more likely to experience a fatality in domestic violence situations. The simple act of practicing safe storage can save lives.

A Conversation Before Every Playdate

As parents, one of the most critical steps we can take to protect our children is to ask about firearms before sending them off to a friend’s or relative’s house. While it may feel uncomfortable, asking whether there is a gun in the home is a necessary conversation to have. If the answer is yes, parents should inquire if the gun is securely locked up with the ammunition stored separately. These conversations are vital to ensuring your child’s safety, but they also set an example for other parents, encouraging them to ask the same questions.

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It’s important to ask about guns even when your child is going to a relative’s home or spending time with older family members. For instance, even if your child is in middle school, it’s essential to consider the potential risks of unsecured firearms. In addition, teach your child to tell an adult immediately if they see a child with access to a gun. For guidance on how to approach these conversations and further resources, parents can visit hospitalsunited.com.

Learning the Signs of Depression

One of the most devastating aspects of gun-related deaths among children is suicide. Unfortunately, suicide rates among young people have been on the rise, and guns remain the most lethal means of taking one’s life. Understanding the signs of depression in your child can be life-saving. Some common indicators include mood swings, personality changes, excessive sleeping or sleeplessness, and feelings of isolation or worthlessness. If you suspect that your child is struggling with depression, it’s essential to seek professional help immediately.

Removing dangerous substances and objects, such as firearms, from the home can also help prevent self-harm. Depression is a major risk factor for suicide, and many young people who attempt suicide do so impulsively, often in a moment of intense emotional distress. Research shows that nine out of ten individuals who survive a suicide attempt will not attempt suicide again. However, the decision to end one’s life can be made in as little as five minutes, which is why removing access to lethal means is so crucial.

Preventing Suicide: Immediate Action is Key

Suicide is preventable, especially among children and teens, but it requires prompt and decisive action. If you believe your child may be suicidal, it’s imperative to remove all lethal means from the home immediately. This includes firearms, medications, sharp objects, poisons, and any other potentially harmful items. While waiting for professional help, it’s important to contact a licensed mental health provider to ensure your child gets the support they need.

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There are numerous resources available for children and teens struggling with suicidal thoughts. Community programs such as 2-1-1 Broward (Dial 211) and texting 988 offer immediate help and connections to mental health services. In addition, school counselors can provide support for children in distress. Suicidal thoughts are often born from a temporary crisis, and most people who survive a suicide attempt will never try again. By removing lethal means from the home and seeking professional help, parents can make a difference in preventing suicide.

Other Ways to Keep Kids Safe from Guns

The issue of unsecured guns extends beyond the home. According to the FBI, eight out of ten school shooters obtained the weapon they used from their own home or the home of a relative. Moreover, firearms are frequently stolen, with a gun being stolen every 90 seconds in the U.S. Each year, a quarter of a million guns are stolen, many of which end up in the hands of criminals, including children and teens. While young people are not legally allowed to purchase firearms, they can often access unsecured guns from vehicles and other places.

Educating others about the dangers of unlocked guns is an essential part of keeping children safe. Not only will this protect your own family, but it can also help safeguard the families of your neighbors and friends. Parents and caregivers must work together to prevent these tragedies by promoting safe gun storage practices and educating the community about the risks of unsecured firearms.

Free Cable Gun Locks for Added Protection

To further support gun safety in the community, the League of Women Voters of Broward offers free cable gun locks through their “Lock It Up!” program. Since its inception, the program has distributed 30,000 free gun locks in Broward County. These cable locks are an easy and effective way to secure firearms and prevent unauthorized access, especially by children. To request a free gun lock, residents can email [email protected], and a lock will be mailed directly to their home.

A Call to Action

The statistics surrounding gun deaths are staggering. With over 48,000 gun-related deaths in the U.S. each year, and 65% of those deaths being suicides, it’s clear that the need for effective gun safety measures is urgent. We must be proactive, educated, and vigilant when it comes to preventing gun injuries and deaths among children. Safe storage, open conversations, and removing lethal means from the home are just a few of the ways we can protect the lives of our children.

Barbara Markley, Esquire, a passionate gun safety advocate and Co-Chair of the Gun Violence Prevention Committee of the League of Women Voters of Broward, emphasizes the importance of taking action to protect children from gun-related harm. The work done by organizations like the League of Women Voters, which aims to educate and advocate for public policy changes, is critical in creating safer communities for all.

By working together, we can reduce the risk of gun violence and help protect our children from the devastating consequences of unsecured firearms. It’s time for all of us to take responsibility and ensure that our homes, communities, and schools are safe from the growing threat of gun violence.