Children don't know the difference between real or toy guns, or fully understand the consequences of their actions before age 8.  Follow these gun safety tips to prevent needless tragedies.

Safety Tips

1. Use a gun safe. Hiding guns is not enough. Never store guns in a dresser, couch, closet, automobile, purse or where your child might find them.
2. Keep all guns unloaded and locked out of reach.
3. Store bullets in a separate, locked place.
4. Before you send your child to someone else's house, ask if there is a gun in their home.  Then make sure safety precautions are followed in that household, too.
5. Teach your child not to touch a gun and to get an adult if they find a gun.

1. Featured item - Gun Lock, which is designed prevent a gun from firing.
2. Where to get it - Hardware stores, discount chains
3. Cost - $10- $35

Safe Kids Mid-South, headquartered at Le Bonheur Children's Medical Center, is part of a global campaign dedicated solely to the prevention of accidental injuries to children age 14 and under - the number one health risk children face today.  Safe Kids Mid-South raises awareness about preventing injury, provides information and skills to make the environment safer, and helps pass laws for children's safety. For more safety information, contact Safe Kids Mid-South at (901) 287-6730 or visit www.lebonheur.org/safekids.