Children are naturally curious, and guns are too interesting to resist. Children and teens should not associate with peers who carry guns. If you own a gun or guns, keep the unloaded gun under lock and key. Teach children about the dangers of guns and peaceful ways to resolve conflicts. Help them recognize the unrealistic use of guns on TV, in videos and video games.
Toy guns can be dangerous for a variety of reason.
First, toy guns should not look like real guns. People have used toy guns for criminal activity and have sometimes been shot by police who believed the gun was real. Children who are familiar with real-looking toy guns may play with real guns thinking they are toys. Some toy guns are dangerous, especially if fired at close range or pointed at another child's face. Like other toys you buy your child, toy guns should be designed for the age of the child and should not contain sharp, jagged or loose parts.