Ensuring secure storage remains a challenge

Firearms are the leading cause of death in children in the United States and are linked to over half of youth suicides. Secure storage of firearms (stored locked, unloaded, and separate from the ammunition) can significantly decrease the rates of child and adolescent firearm-related suicides.

According to research presented during the American Academy of Pediatrics 2024 National Conference & Exhibition at the Orange County Convention Center from Sept. 27–Oct. 1, “Caregiver Perspectives on Firearm Safety Guidance for Children Hospitalized for Suicidal Ideation or Attempt,” parents—both firearm-owners and non-owners—overwhelmingly agree that doctors should be discussing secure firearms storage with parents. However, 19% of firearm-owning caregivers reported that they were not storing their firearms securely.

“The health and safety of children are the top priority for pediatricians. Previous studies confirm that firearm secure storage can decrease the risk of youth suicide and that pediatricians’ discussions with families can increase the likelihood of firearm secure storage practices,” said Taylor Rosenbaum, MD, MA, lead author.

Authors surveyed 100 caregivers of children and young people, ages 8-21 years, who were admitted to the hospital for suicidal ideation or suicide attempt. Families were questioned about their attitudes toward firearm counseling and were offered secure storage counseling and a free firearm lock. The survey results show that parents were receptive to talking about firearms in the home with their doctors.

This is an ongoing study. Since the abstract was submitted to the AAP, the researchers have continued the study and are providing updated data that is not included in the abstract. (The original data is included in the abstract below.) According to the updated data including 100 parents, of the parents surveyed:

• Only half (51%) reported being asked about the presence of home firearms by their health care team
• 96% agreed it was important for their child’s hospital team to ask about firearm ownership
• 96% thought secure firearm storage counseling by the health care team was important
• 89% felt it was important to distribute firearm locks in the hospital
• Firearm non-owners were more likely to think firearm lock distribution was “very important,” however both groups recognized the importance.

“As a result of our recent efforts, we have also confirmed that parents of children hospitalized for suicidal thoughts or actions want to have firearm secure storage discussions with their health care team during the hospitalization and benefited from a free firearm lock,” Dr. Rosenbaum said. “This insight gives pediatricians actionable ways to make a positive difference in the safety of these children.”

The research was completed at Baylor College of Medicine / Texas Children’s Hospital.