Smith letter: Gun safety
If we teach our children these simple rules, and follow them ourselves, there will never be another “accidental” shooting.
Rule 1. The gun is always loaded. It doesn’t matter who checked it, or how many people checked it. There are no exceptions — ever. The gun is always loaded.
Rule 2. Never point a gun at anyone, or anything, you don’t intend to shoot. That means you never demonstrate your laser site by pointing the gun at a person, family pet, livestock or any other living creature you don’t intend to shoot and kill.
Rule 3. All guns stored in the home should be in a locked safe or be fitted with a trigger lock.
Children should also be taught to never pick up a gun if they find one (See Rule 1). They should report it to the police, their parents or another responsible adult.
Target shooting and hunting are activities that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Lets make sure they are safe as well.
Richard E. Smith, Boise
This story was originally published December 12, 2015 at 11:13 PM with the headline "Smith letter: Gun safety."