It’s no secret that gun violence is a major problem in the United States. Every day, on average, 96 people are killed with guns and hundreds more are injured. While there are many things we can do as individuals to try to keep ourselves safe from gun violence, it’s also important for families to come together and create a plan to stay safe. Here are five ways to help keep your family safe from gun violence.
1. Talk to your kids about gun safety.
It’s important that you talk to your kids about gun safety from a young age. Teach them about the dangers of guns and what they should do if they ever see one. Also, make sure they know never to touch a gun without an adult present.
2. Keep your guns locked up.
If you have guns in your home, it’s important to keep them locked up and out of reach of children. You should also have a gun safe or lock box to store them in. This will help to ensure that only adults can access the guns and that they are stored safely when not in use.
3. Be aware of your surroundings.
When you’re out in public, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and who is around you. If you see someone carrying a gun, or if you feel unsafe for any reason, remove yourself from the situation and call 911.
4. Know the warning signs of gun violence.
There are often warning signs before someone commits gun violence. If you see someone exhibiting these signs, it’s important to talk to them about it and get help if necessary. Warning signs can include making threats of violence, talking about wanting to hurt others, or having a history of violence.
5. Get involved in gun safety advocacy.
There are many ways to get involved in gun safety advocacy and help make a difference. You can join a local group, donate to organizations that support gun safety, or write to your representatives and let them know that you support gun reform. Every little bit helps to make our world a safer place.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your family safe from gun violence. Remember, it’s important to be vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times. If you see something that doesn’t look right, trust your gut and remove yourself from the situation. And finally, get involved in gun safety advocacy to help make a difference.