JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Duval County Public Schools leaders are reminding and teaching parents to secure their guns. It is part of an effort to avoid accidental shootings.
The district started the “Be Smart” initiative in January. At that time, it saw five accidental shootings involving kids who had access to guns that were not properly stored.
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Research estimates that the risk of accidental firearm injuries to kids is lowered by 85% if ammunition and guns are locked properly.
According to the district, nearly 350 kids 17 years old and younger get access to guns and accidentally shoot themselves or others every year.
“As a superintendent, as a mother, and as a community member, these numbers matter to me,” DCPS Superintendent Dr. Diana Greene said.
That statement was a part of a video message from Dr. Greene and the chief of school police Gregory Burton that was sent to parents Wednesday.
The campaign is using the acronym: S.M.A.R.T to hammer home some reminders.
S.M.A.R.T stands for.
- Secure all guns in homes and cars
- Model responsible behavior around guns
- Ask about where unsecured guns may be in other houses
- Recognize the role of guns in suicide
- Tell peers to be smart