If your browser does not support forms, please send an email message to the Permissions Coordinator . Firearms are a major cause of death and injury in Canada and account for over 1000 deaths annually. The CMA has made several recommendations to governments and other bodies undertaking legislative review and public policy change. These recommendations relate to the regulation of firearms, education for the safe handling of firearms, broad-based violence prevention programs, and research and information provision. In addition, the CMA has produced guidelines to assist physicians in identifying and counselling patients at risk of violent behaviour and in reporting patients at risk.
Firearms are a major cause of death and injury in Canada.
The cost to society of firearm-related injury, particularly spinal cord and head injuries, is estimated to be considerable. Over the short term, policy should focus on firearms and the user. Applying stringent controls on firearms, however, may have little effect on the rates of death and injury if the underlying problems of violence in society are not addressed. The object of regulation should be to deter people at risk for violent or self-destructive behaviour from having easy access to firearms. Education Training in safe handling of firearms is strongly recommended, particularly for all first-time firearm users.