More Americans than ever before are investing in firearms of all shapes and sizes and they're stocking up on ammo as well
. For gun enthusiasts who have children big or small in the house, you are no doubt concerned about their safety. But kids and guns in the house do not have to be mutually exclusive as long as you abide by some common-sense safety guidelines. Here are some tips.
Invest in gun safes: the importance of this particular tip cannot be emphasized enough! Too many accidental shootings involving children happen because firearms are not properly secured in the home. You can't control childhood curiosity or mischief, but you can control where you keep your guns when they are not in use. Choose the right kind of safe for your gun and exercise absolute diligence in keeping it locked at all times.
If you use a key for your safe, hide it where your kids will not find it. If you use a combination lock or similar system, never divulge the code except to another responsible adult.
Separate storage: For extra security, it is wise to store guns and ammunition in separate locked containers. No matter how diligent you are about keeping your safe locked, stuff happens: and it only takes one lapse in judgment for an accident to occur.
Until you can procure a safe, keep your firearm disassembled so that it cannot be accidentally discharged by a child. Kids are wily about finding things they're not supposed to find! Don't assume that if you keep your gun well-hidden that they won't find it. Statistics prove otherwise.
Don't be shy about talking with your kids: They know you keep guns, and they're going to be curious about them. The best way to diffuse that interest is not to ignore it, but to address it head-on. Talk to your children about guns and what a gun can do if not handled properly.
Be explicit with your kids about not touching a gun at all unless you are there to supervise them. They should never handle a gun at a friend's house even if the friend's parent is present. Bottom line: Your children should never touch a gun unless you say it's OK and you are there with them.