Firearm safety and children: access and attitudes

Author: Howard, P. K. / Lassman, J.
Publication: J Emerg Nurs
Topics: Age Group Public Health Students U.S./National education/couseling
Keywords: Children Firearm Safety Skills Health Personnel NATIONAL Rifle Association of America education
Bibliographic information +

The author briefly describes and evaluates 2 gun safety education programs for children, The Eddie Eagle Gun Safe program, for children in Kindergarten through 6th grade, STAR, for children in pre-K through 12th grade, and STOP 2, a gun safety program for health professionals aimed at parents and caregivers. The author finds the Eddie Eagle program, developed by the National Rifle Association, to be the most effective program in terms of developmental appropriateness and presentation, although lacking in some elements of safe gun storage. Another program described is the Emergency Nurses Association Gun Safety Program, which the author praises for its recognition of diverse learning styles. While acknowledging that there is no empirical data supporting gun safety programs, the author advocates for the use of such programs that address a wide range of learners and explicitly teach safe gun practices.