9 Facts Every Parent Needs to Know About Gun Violence

If you feel like every time you turn on the news there's another school shooting story, you're not alone, and you're not wrong. Since the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School back in December 2012, there have been a staggering 142 school shootings in the US, and in many cases, the shooters procure their weapons from their very own homes.

One out of every three dwellings with children in the US have guns in them, and as such, the Brady Center to Prevent Gun Violence has implemented the national ASK Campaign. The crux of the program isn't to raise funds or sign a petition — it's to take direct action on behalf of your own children and, before their next playdate, ask, "Is there an unlocked gun where my child plays?" It's as easy (and critical) as that.

If you're not yet inspired to get involved, keep reading for some sobering statistics on the issue of gun violence in our country — especially as it pertains to our children.

01
One out of every three homes with kids has guns.
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One out of every three homes with kids has guns.

02
Nine children and teens are shot every day in gun accidents.
Getty | Mark Wilson

Nine children and teens are shot every day in gun accidents.

03
Eighty percent of accidental firearm deaths of kids under the age of 15 occur at home.
Thinkstock | RomarioIen

Eighty percent of accidental firearm deaths of kids under the age of 15 occur at home.

04
More than 17,500 children and teens are injured or killed each year due to gun violence.
Getty | Scott Olson

More than 17,500 children and teens are injured or killed each year due to gun violence.

05
Ninety-three percent of parents (including those who own guns) would be comfortable with being asked about it.
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Ninety-three percent of parents (including those who own guns) would be comfortable with being asked about it.

06
Three in four children between the ages of 5 and 14 know where firearms are kept in their home.
Thinkstock | ArminStautBerlin

Three in four children between the ages of 5 and 14 know where firearms are kept in their home.

08
That's more than one each week that school has been in session since.
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That's more than one each week that school has been in session since.

09
Guns are the second leading cause of death among children and teens.
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Guns are the second leading cause of death among children and teens.