As the holidays draw near, Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD reminds our families and community about the importance of firearm safety. The Texas School Safety Center (TxSSC) recommends that districts share safe firearm storage information with parents throughout the year–especially before Winter Break. 

According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, approximately one-third of homes with children have at least one firearm. It is important to keep firearms locked, unloaded, and away from children. 

Whether there is a firearm in their homes or not, it is important to talk with students about gun safety. These discussions will help children know how to act in case they see or are around a gun when parents are not present. 

DPS recommends parents choose a time and place where their children won’t be distracted to have the conversation. Consider the child’s age when talking about gun safety. Ask them what they already know, and encourage them to ask questions. Parents should speak with their children periodically to make sure their children remember gun safety tips. 

Some tips parents can provide during these talks include: 

• Guns are not toys.
• If you see a gun somewhere, do not touch it, leave and tell an adult.
• Always treat a gun as if it were loaded.

Brainstorm and agree on strategies to leave a situation where a gun is present. For example, a teen can say, “Mom/Dad just texted that I have to get home right now.” 

For a slideshow and more information regarding gun safety, please visit the Texas Department of Public Safety’s website.