Safe Kids Start with
Safe Firearm Storage

Simple conversations and
secure storage save lives

Make secure firearm storage part of every safety talk
with kids and adults.

Conversations

What do I tell my young child?

Talking to your child about gun safety can be just like other safety talks like what to do in an emergency, how to handle stranger danger, or knowing about allergies.

• Have a simple and clear message like: “If you see a gun, stop, do not touch it, run away, and tell a grown-up.” (eddieeagle.nra.org)
• “If you see a gun, don’t touch it. Tell an adult right away.” (Besmartforkids.org)
• “Do not touch a gun, even if it looks like a toy.” (Besmartforkids.org)

Why It Works:
Young kids are naturally curious and may not understand that guns are dangerous. They may think it’s a toy or feel tempted to touch it. Repeating these rules regularly helps them react safely if they ever come across a gun, whether at a friend’s house or out in the world.

Other Tips:

• Use clear, calm language
• Reinforce messages with repetition and praise
• Role-play different scenarios so kids can practice what to do

Source: NRA

What do I tell my teen?

• “Immediately leave any situation where an unsecured gun is present.” (Besmartforkids.org)
• “Do not listen to a friend who says a gun is unloaded or otherwise safe.” (Besmartforkids.org)
• If a student tells you they have a gun in their backpack or locker, or a gun at home they plan to bring to school, it’s important to tell an adult right away.

Why It Works:
At this age, kids are developing independence and social awareness. They may find themselves in tricky situations, especially at a friend’s house, where they need the confidence to speak up or leave.

Other tips:

• Discuss real-life examples (without being scary)
• Ask questions like, “What would you do if…?”
• Remind them it’s okay to leave or call you anytime

All Ages

• Isolated lessons and concepts can quickly be forgotten, but with repetition, children remember standard safety procedures. (eddieeagle.nra.org)
• Make sure your child understands the difference between a toy gun and a real gun, and the difference between “pretend” and real life. (eddieeagle.nra.org)
• Talking to children about guns is a precaution, not a guarantee of safety. (Besmartforkids.org)

Ways to Keep It Going:

• Bring up the topic casually during TV shows, news stories, or trips to friends’ houses.
• Use reminders before playdates, babysitting, or school events.
• Revisit the conversation as your child grows; what’s relevant at age 5 changes by age 15.

What do I ask before my child plays at someone else’s house?

When your child visits someone else’s home, it’s important to understand if the homeowner securely stores their firearm, which means unloaded, locked with the ammunition separate from the gun.

• “Before I drop my son off, I just wanted to check to see if you have pets? And also ask if you have firearms in your house and confirm how they are stored. I want to make sure he knows your safety rules.” (BeSmartForKids.org)
• “While we’re talking safety – do you have any guns in the house? If so, can you tell me how they’re stored? Thanks!” (publichealth.jhu.edu)
• “Are they stored in an area where kids don’t have general access?”(publichealth.jhu.edu)

Tips for Asking Respectfully:

• Use everyday safety check-ins to introduce the topic.
• Keep the tone nonjudgmental and focused on shared concern for children’s well-being.

How can I ask about guns over text?

• “I know my son hasn’t been to your home before and I do like to ask a few safety questions. He is skittish around dogs, do you have any? Also, do you own any firearms, and if so, how are they stored? Finally, will they be playing video games? We only allow limited time on ones rated ‘E.’ He doesn’t have any allergies. For future reference, no pets, and no firearms at our home. Thanks so much.” (BeSmartForKids.org)
• “Appreciate you watching him today. Now that he’s four, I’ve noticed that he’s pretty curious and has a great imagination. I also noted that he loves to play with pretend guns. I realize that I have never asked this, but do you have any guns?” (safekids.org)

Source: Agree to Agree

Storage For Gun Owners