Firearm Safety & Kids
Introducing kids to firearm safety can be a daunting task as improper teaching can result in severe consequences. Yet, wanting to share a passion and respect for firearms for generations to come starts with you. Here are some tips for how to effectively, and safely introduce your kids to firearm safety:
1. “Start Small”: Always begin firearms safety with a firearm sized appropriately for your child. By starting small, both in firearm, and in caliber size, it will be easier to introduce the basic fundamentals such as grip, sight alignment & sight picture, and trigger pull. By choosing an appropriately sized caliber, it is less likely that a child will be turned off to both the recoil and the sound of the firearm.
2. “Supervision”: Always supervise your children when handling firearms. Even with unloaded firearms, it is important to watch your children and address any safety issues and training scars early on. This will prevent bad habits from forming.
3. “When & Where”: Teaching your child when it is appropriate to handle and use firearms can prevent others from feeling uncomfortable around guns while also teaching safe handling methods.
4. “Storage”: Teaching safe and effective firearm storage can also prevent the mishandling of firearms. Knowing when it is and isn’t safe for a firearm to be loaded will result in good habits down the line.
5. "The Basics": As always, be sure to utilize the four basic firearm rules:
- Always treat a firearm as if it were loaded
- Never point a firearm at something you are not willing to destroy
- Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to fire
- Be aware of what is in front of your target and what is behind it
Lastly, remember that common sense isn’t always very common when it comes to firearms. Go slow, and walk the kids through every step. It only takes a split second for accidents to happen. Have fun, but be safe!
Looking for a way to try out multiple firearms with your kids? Our VIP Range Experience sponsored by Smith & Wesson is this Thursday the 20th at 5pm. This experience allows you and your child to try out different firearms in a safe and educational environment. Price is only $75 for both you AND your child to attend - thats half off our last event! Call us at (616)-259-6979 for more info or to sign up. Or stop by our store at:
5740 Foremost Dr SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49546