Unintentional Firearm Injuries

1. Unintentional Firearm Injuries • In 1994, there were 787 unintended firearm deaths among persons aged 10 to 29, accounting for 58% of all unintentional firearm deaths in the nation that year. • It is estimated that there are approximately three (3) nonfatal firearm injuries for every death associated with a firearm.

2. Unintended Firearm Injuries • In 1990, firearm injuries cost over $20.4 billion in both direct costs for hospital and other medical care, and in indirect costs for long-term disability and premature death. • At least 80% of the economic costs of treating firearm injuries are paid for by taxpayer dollars. (CDC, 1998).

3. Firearm Safety • Almost 1/2 of all American homes have a firearm. • Most accidental firearm deaths are the result of: • improper storage • careless handling • improper cleaning • Many firearm deaths result from people handling guns they thought were unloaded

4. Where guns are kept • Gun closet – 53% • Bedroom – 17% • Other closet – 19% • In vehicle – 1% • Other – 10%

5. Primary reasons to Own/Use Firearms • Hunting – 51% • Protection – 32% • Have used gun for protection – 11% • Target shooting – 13% • Collecting – 4%

6. Before handling a firearm you should: • Know how the firearm operates. Not all firearms are the same. Know how to safely open and close the action of the firearm and know how to safely remove any ammunition from the gun or from the gun’s magazine. The manufacturer’s name and location are on every gun. Write them for free safety and operating instructions.

7. Firearm Safety Rules

8. Firearm Safety Rules • Treat every gun as if it were loaded. • Always point the muzzle in a safe direction -- never point a gun at anyone whether loaded or unloaded • Never keep a loaded gun in the house or anywhere on the home premises • Keep all guns out of the reach of children and preferably locked up • All ammunition should be stored separately from the gun, also locked up • Never allow a gun to be brought into the house without checking both the magazine and the chamber yourself to be sure it is not loaded.

9. Firearm Safety Rules (2) • Be sure the barrel and action are clear of obstruction and that you have the proper ammunition for the firearm you are carrying. • Be sure of your target before you pull the trigger. • Never point a firearm at anything you do not want to shoot. Avoid all horseplay with any firearm. • Never climb a fence, tree, or jump a ditch with a loaded firearm. • Never shoot at a flat hard surface or water. • Avoid alcohol and other drugs before or during shooting.