As hunting season and the holidays arrive this November, the Wisconsin Office of Children’s Mental Health is reminding families about the importance of safe firearm storage — especially to protect children and teens.
The Office points to new data showing that 8 in 10 children who die by firearm suicide obtained the gun from a family member, and most guns used in school shootings also come from the home.
Director Linda Hall says firearms are now the leading cause of death for kids and teens, and that everyone can take steps to keep children safe.
Families are urged to store guns securely — using safes or locks — or consider keeping them off-site. Many health providers even offer free gun locks.
Health professionals can also help by screening for suicide risk and using programs like CALM — Counseling on Access to Lethal Means — which trains providers to talk with families about firearm safety.
Hall adds that with International Survivor of Suicide Loss Day coming up on November 22, it’s a time to remember those lost — and take action to prevent future tragedies.
For more information, visit children.wi.gov.
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