EPSDT Care for Kids Newsletter

Fall 2009
Are There Guns Where Your Children Play?
Intentional injuries are a significant cause of mortality in children and youth and firearms are the most successful agent used in suicide and homicide. Educating families about gun violence, both accidental and intentional, can help them make more informed decisions about the implications of gun-ownership and storing guns in the home. Although parents may not have a gun in their home, it’s possible their child plays at the home of a friend or relative who does. The following suggestions, from the ASK: Asking Saves Kids campaign, can help parents determine whether there’s a gun at a playmate’s home.
	Ask	Ask about guns before sending your child to someone’s house
	Ask	If the answer is NO... There's one less thing you have to worry about.
	Ask	If the answer is YES... Make absolutely sure that all guns are stored unloaded and locked – ideally in a gun safe –with ammunition locked separately.
	Ask	Ask with other questions. Include the question along with other things you might normally discuss before sending your child to someone’s house, such as seat belts, animals, or allergies.
	Ask	Use the facts. Over 40% of homes with children have a gun and many of those guns are left unlocked and loaded. That’s why you’re asking the question–you just want to make sure that your child is safe.
	Ask	Work through groups. Introduce the ASK concept through a group or community effort, such as your religious organization or PTA.
	Ask	Don’t be confrontational. Present your concerns in a respectful manner. You are simply trying to make sure your child is playing in a safe environment.
More Information on Gun Violence and Gun Safety PAX is a non-profit organization working in partnership with the AAP to end gun violence against children and families and sponsors the ASK: Asking Saves Kids campaign. Weapons at school - To report a weapon threat at school, call SPEAK UP: 866-SPEAK-UP (866-773-2587). It’s anonymous and free. The Million Mom March - A national network of 75 chapters around the U.S. that work locally, yet stand together, in their fight against gun violence and the devastation it causes. Student Pledge Against Gun Violence - A national program that honors the role that young people, through their own decisions, can play in reducing gun violence. The Violence Policy Center (VPC) - Approaches gun violence as a public health issue and works to stop deaths and injuries from guns through research, advocacy, and education. Gun violence statistics - An excellent summary National Rifle Association: Education. NRA Training Counselors recruit and train instructors to teach NRA’s basic firearm courses. Hunter Services offers hunters a wide range of programs addressing all aspects of hunting, including youth hunter skills. Youth Programs helps America’s adult leaders and national youth serving organizations set up shooting programs. National Resource Center on Domestic Violence, 800-537-2238 National Youth Violence Prevention Resource Center, 866-SAFEYOUTH (866-723-3968)