Prevention of Firearm-Related Injuries and Deaths Among Youth

Law enforcement officers' opinions about gun locks: anchors on life jackets?

“…It is also important to mention that most extrinsic gun safety devices, including keyed cable gun locks, have not been rigorously evaluated. 8 In fact, some devices have even been recalled after going on the market. 25 26 Most recently, Project HomeSafe discontinued distribution of gun locks after it came to their attention that the locks could be disassembled in response to a large amount of force.…”

“…Thus, we support the continued development and evaluation of extrinsic safety devices, personalized guns, and other engineering eVorts to ensure that those keeping guns for self protection can simultaneously prevent the unauthorized release of their weapon. 8 Law enforcement oYcers and injury prevention professionals should continue to work together to combat firearm injuries utilizing their complimentary strengths and with recognition of their diVerences. OYcers and injury prevention professionals may have diVerent philosophies regarding firearm safety education and interventions.…”

“…4 5 It has been suggested that young people's relatively easy access to firearms is a major contributor to this epidemic. [6][7][8][9][10][11] An estimated 35% to 50% of homes in the United States have firearms. [12][13][14] Adults, and parents in particular, often store guns in a manner in which they are readily accessible to youth; this includes keeping guns loaded and not locked up, and storing extra ammunition along with the firearm.…”

“…18 Gun locks are advocated as a strategy to prevent unauthorized access of weapons. 8 16 19 Keyed cable gun locks render guns inoperable because the gun must be unloaded to install the device, and a steel cable runs through the barrel for a revolver, or through the ejection port for semiautomatics, rifles, and shotguns. A keyed lock secures the cable (fig 1).…”

Thanking reviewers

“…7 8 Third, information on firearm design features that restrict unauthorized access such as trigger locks or personalized guns is needed because they represent a potentially eVective approach to reducing firearm suicide events. 9 Several states have passed or are considering laws to incorporate safety features into guns that would reduce unauthorized access to them. For example, in Maryland, by 2003, all guns sold in the state will be required to incorporate built-in trigger locks into the design of the gun.…”