The recent tragic news in Minnesota that two young lives were lost in separate accidental firearm deaths underscores the importance of discussing safety with patients and families. MNAAP has long advocated for firearm violence prevention measures, and while some progress is being made at the legislative level, much of the prevention and awareness begins at home.
The American Academy of Pediatrics’ website HealthyChildren.org has extensive resources for families to learn more about the safe storage of firearms, how to keep kids safe at home and in other people’s homes, and how to discuss firearm violence with children.
Additionally, MNAAP offers the recorded webinar, “Firearm Violence Prevention: Counseling Parents about Safe Gun Storage Practices at the Practice Level” which was presented by Andrew Kiragu, MD, FAAP, Sheldon Berkowitz, MD, FAAP, and Gretchen Karstens, MD, FAAP in January 2020.
