Gun Safety During Deer Season: Protecting Kids During the Holidays
As deer season arrives, many families are gearing up for early mornings in the woods, hunting trips, and time together for Thanksgiving. With relatives visiting — including children who aren’t normally in your home — it’s important to think about gun safety. More firearms are in use this time of year, and more kids may be nearby, increasing the need for careful storage and awareness.
The Reality
Firearms are now the leading cause of death for U.S. children and teens. Many of these tragedies happen at home and often involve loaded, unlocked guns. Even in responsible households, the routine of hunting season — bringing firearms in and out of the house, cleaning equipment, or hosting guests — can create unexpected risks.
Key Safety Tips
1. Always store firearms unloaded and locked
Use a gun safe, lockbox, or cabinet. Keep ammo stored separately. After a hunt, secure firearms immediately — don’t leave them unattended while unloading or cleaning.
2. Plan for visiting children
Kids who don’t live with you may not know your rules or may be more curious. Make sure guns are never left in accessible places like mudrooms, garages, or spare bedrooms.
3. Communicate with family and guests
Let everyone know your home’s firearm rules. If guests bring their own guns for hunting, provide clear guidance on where they can safely store them.
4. Create kid-safe zones
Keep firearms and hunting gear away from living areas, play spaces, and places where children gather during holiday events.
5. Teach simple safety messages
Tell kids: If you see a gun, don’t touch it. Tell an adult right away. This applies in your home, someone else’s home, or outdoors.
A Safer Holiday Season
Deer season and Thanksgiving bring families together — which makes this the perfect time to double-check your gun safety habits. By securing firearms, planning ahead for visiting children, and communicating clearly, you can enjoy the holiday and the hunt while keeping everyone safe.
