Summary: A gun in the home is 43 times more likely to be used to kill a friend or family member than a burglar or other criminal.More than 44 million Americans own firearms. Of the 192 million firearms owned in the United States, 65 million are handguns. Research shows guns in homes are a serious risk to families. In fact, a gun in the home is 43 times more likely to be used to kill a friend or family member than a burglar or other criminal. Your home is safer without a handgun; but if you choose to have a handgun, make sure it is stored unloaded and locked up. Suicide is one of the three leading causes of death for 13- to 19-year-olds in the United States, and keeping guns away from your teen can help increase their chances of survival if attempting suicide. The availability of handguns in settings where children live and play has led to a devastating toll on human lives. But it's not just your home you need to be concerned with. How do you have that conversation with other parents about whether they have firearms? The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is renewing its call to reduce the destructive effects of guns on the lives of children and adolescents, including counseling parents about safe gun storage and supporting legislation to prevent firearm injuries and deaths. Join Dr. Alison Tothy as she shares more information on these initiatives.
