Holiday Tips: How to ask if there is a gun before visiting family and friends

The first time we visited my dad’s house was for Christmas. I asked him before our visit if there were guns in the home and how they were stored, explaining that my curious, now-walking toddler would get into everything!! I took the blame out of the conversation and focused on the child’s natural curiosity. He told me the guns were sitting by the back door, not locked up. He mentioned he had picked up around the house, but the gun never crossed his mind. With his help, we ordered a locked case before we arrived. I was nervous about talking to my dad, but in the end, it was more stressful in my head than in reality, and the peace of mind was absolutely worth it! 

I know these conversations can feel daunting, and it’s hard to know where to begin. That’s why we’re giving a FREE safety journal with any purchase of conversation cards or journals through the end of December. Our safety journal is designed to help guide important talks with your child about gun safety, your family’s fire plan, what to do if they get lost, and more! 

• Prepare Yourself: Take a deep breath and remind yourself this is a necessary conversation. Your child's safety is the priority. 

• Be Direct, But Calm: Reach out to the host beforehand, either in person or via phone, in a respectful, non-judgmental way. You could say, "I like to check in about safety before visits—my kiddo is really curious. Can you let me know if there are any safety concerns, like a pool or guns in your home?" 

• Respect Boundaries: If the answer is no, thank them for their openness. If yes, ask if /howthe gun is safely stored and locked away. 

• Follow Up: If you're uncomfortable with the response, it’s okay to prioritize your family’s safety and decide whether attending is the right choice. Your child's well-being is worth protecting. ❤️

• Have a Safe Conversation with Your Child: Talk to your child about what to do if they see a gun. Teach them to never touch it, to tell an adult immediately, and to walk away from the situation to stay safe.