Stop the Killing - Put Down the Guns! Pt#2

Gun Violence in the United States - There are more than 211 million firearms in the United States, 71 million of which are handguns.  Black youths ages 15 to 19 are 50% more likely to be victims of murder than white youths. Firearms are the leading cause of homicidal death among black teens in this country. About 500 children are killed in firearms accidents each year, many with their parents' guns. Almost 16 million teens have witnessed some form of violent assault. About one in eight people murdered in the United States each year are younger than 18 years of age. Research shows a link between violent television programs and aggressive behavior in teens who watch those programs. A gun in the home is more likely used to kill a family member or friend than to kill an intruder. Talk to your teen about ways to solve arguments and fights without weapons or violence. Limit the amount of television your teen watches to 1 to 2 hours/day (including music videos and video games). If something violent comes on the TV, talk about what is wrong with the program. Be a role model by handling problems in nonviolent ways. Don't carry a gun. This sends a message to your teen that using guns solves problems. Make certain your teen does not have access to guns. If you have a gun, remove it from your home or store it unloaded and locked up, and store bullets separately. Tell your teen to stay away from guns in homes of friends where he or she may visit or play. Keep in mind that teens are attracted to, and see guns as symbols of power. Since you can't always count on teens to stay away from guns, you have to keep guns away from them. 

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