It Never Hurts to ASK

Tomorrow is the first day of summer, but despite the anticipation for the days ahead, eight more American children will be unintentionally injured or killed by an improperly stored or misused gun found in a home.  That is why tomorrow is also ASK Day, during which New York State Senator Monica R. Martinez is encouraging parents to remember to ask the question, "Is there an unlocked gun where my child plays?"

ASK Day is a public education campaign developed by the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence in 2000 to protect children’s lives and safety by urging all parents and caretakers to ask if there are accessible guns where their children play or hang out.  ASK, which stands for Asking Saves Kids, coincides with the first day of summer because it is a time when children are out of school and spend more time at home and in the homes of others.

"ASK Day is a reminder that children’s safety begins at home,” said Senator Martinez. “With millions of children living in households where unlocked or unsupervised guns pose a risk, it's imperative that parents are reminded of these dangers, especially during the idle summer months.  By raising awareness, we can prevent tragic accidents and protect kids’ lives."

According to the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence, 4.6 million children live in homes with access to an unlocked or unsupervised gun.  The organization reports that among children, 89% of unintentional shooting deaths occur in the home.  Keeping guns locked and unloaded reduces the risk of unintentional shooting deaths and gun suicides among youth by 73%. However, 39% of parents mistakenly believe their child does not know where their firearm is stored, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and education on safe gun storage practices.