Question 3

The efficacy of programs designed to teach young children and teens about safe use of firearms is questionable.

Answer: d.  According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the safest home is a home without guns. If there are guns at home, they should be unloaded and locked with the ammunition locked separately. This is an adult responsibility - programs such as Eddie Eagle do not work because young children are curious and impulsive and teens are passionate and impulsive - all of which will override any "safety training" received by the child. Typical prevention questions to ask parents and caregivers of a minor child are 1/do you use a child car restraint, 2/are there smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in use at home, 3/are there guns in the home. Asking about guns is a process; assure confidentiality, approach the conversation with facts, and be non-judgmental.