Children often can't tell the difference between a real gun and a toy, and many toddlers may be strong enough to pull the trigger on a real gun. Here are some things you can do to keep yourself and your family safe.
Teach children to assume that all guns are real.
Make sure they understand that realistic “toy” guns, such as Airsoft, are very real looking and can cause serious injury.
Teach children that they shouldn't touch guns and that if they see a gun, to leave it alone and tell an adult.
If your children play at another home, talk to the parents about gun safety.
Treat every gun as if it were loaded.
Always store guns unloaded.
Lock guns in a rack or safe, and hide the keys or combination.
Store ammunition away from guns and keep it locked.
Don't keep guns in your home if someone in your family has a mental illness, severe depression, or potential for violence.
Explain to children the difference between what they see in video games or movies and reality; people really die after being shot with a gun. Using a gun is serious and dangerous
If you decide that you no longer need to have a firearm in your home, dispose of it in a safe way. Consult with law enforcement in your community on how to do so.