All teens are curious about guns due to the promotion of guns in movies, video games and TV Shows. Lack of knowledge of how to handle guns and the safe ways to store them, has led to many deaths of children in American homes. Education and following safe guns practices are the key to protecting your children. Guns don't just go off, somebody has to pull the trigger.
Firearms are the second most cause of death in Americans aged 15 to 24. In 2004 29,569 American people died by gunfire. In a Recent survey in 2009, teens indicated that almost half of African American teens know someone who has been shot. Also 34% of teens say they can get their hands on a handgun if they really wanted to.
The best ways to train your kids on the safe use of guns is to use Airsoft guns which shoot a plastic BB at a low rate of speed through the use of a spring loaded mechanism, electric, or gas powered means. These guns don't fire at a speed that would result in any injuries; your eyes are the only thing vunerable. Masks, and goggles provide adequate protection for your eyes while engaging in play, tournaments, or competition. Paintball guns are another popular choice for teens to learn about guns. They fire at a higher rate of speed than Airsoft guns and are known to hurt when getting hit by a paintball. These guns shouldn't be used by children whom wouldn't act in a reasonable way. There's a history of teens misusing these guns to damage cars, property, and animals. Air powered BB pellet guns and rifles should be only used under adult supervision due to the fact that these guns can seriously harm people and fatally kill animals.
Real firearms should be kept under lock , preferably in a gun safe. Children should never have access to real firearms. Teens once they pass a hunters safety course may go hunting with adults. You should spend able time with your teen first training him/her on the safe use of the hunting rifle before venturing off to the woods. Teach your teen the four basic rules: Always keep the gun pointed in a safe direction. Treat the gun as if loaded at all times. Dont' shoot until the target is clearly visible and all behind it. Never keep your finger on the trigger of a gun.
The best way to protect your family is to keep the gun unloaded and locked up so they can't get to it. If it’s available there is more of a chance of your children getting to it than a burglar breaking in your home. Teaching teens the safe and responsible way to handle guns will help them to stay alive longer. Never buy them guns to just go out and play , because you're too busy to watch them. The single most effective way to protect your children is to not keep any guns in your house at all.