02/27/2026
**Gun Safety Awareness Post**
At South Dayton Pediatrics, the safety of our children is always our top priority. Conversations about gun safety can be difficult, but they are essential. Teaching children what to do if they ever encounter a firearm can save lives. Start with simple, clear rules: **Stop. Don’t Touch. Run Away. Tell an Adult.** Reinforce that guns are not toys and should only be handled by trained adults in safe, supervised environments.
Parents, it’s also important to store fi****ms safely: keep guns locked, unloaded, and stored separately from ammunition. Regularly checking that children cannot access them is a critical step in prevention. Open, age-appropriate conversations help children feel safe asking questions and understanding the seriousness of gun safety.
📊 Why this matters:
• Fi****ms are now the **leading cause of death for children and teens in the United States**.
• In 2023, about **2,566 children ages 1–17 died from fi****ms**, averaging roughly seven child deaths per day.
• From 2013–2023, nearly **21,000 children (17 and under) died due to firearm injuries** in the U.S.
These numbers are heartbreaking—but prevention starts at home and in our communities. By talking openly with our children, modeling responsible behavior, and practicing safe storage, we can reduce risk and protect the lives of our kids.
If you ever have questions about discussing difficult safety topics with your child, our team at South Dayton Pediatrics is here to support you. Together, we can keep our children safe, informed, and protected. 💙
