Encore Episode: Gun Safety, ASK Day & Coordinating a Playdate

One-third of American families reside in a home with a gun. Nearly one and a half million children live in a home with a loaded, unlocked gun.

The result? Injuries and death.

Your pediatrician isn’t judging you when asking about household guns. Pediatricians advise on many ways to keep your child safe, from sunscreen and vaccines to health checks and car seats. Children are curious, and there is a good chance your child knows how to access the gun.

ASK Day (June 21) builds awareness around guns in the home. ASK stands for: Asking Saves Kids. When you have a playdate, ask if there is an unlocked gun in the house. Guns should be stored, unloaded, in a safe. The key should be stashed separately.

Setting up a Playdate

When you set up a playdate, you need to ask about safety concerns. Trampolines, swimming pools, and food allergies are all important to address. It’s your right to say you aren’t comfortable sending your child to someone else’s house. You can invite their child to come to your home. Have discussions with your child about your safety rules.

Listen as Dr. Jaime Friedman joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss the importance of ASK Day and keeping your child safe on playdates.