| ARE YOUR CHILDREN REALLY SAFE WITH YOUR FRIENDS? |
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Does your family or friends own a gun? Is your child visiting a home where guns are present? How can you be sure if you never ask? It could be an innocent sleepover or perhaps a birthday party that your child is invited to. You could know these good people for a long time that simply adore your childrens presence. But you have never discussed their feelings on gun possession. You need to know in advance if guns are on the premises and if the homeowner has taken preventive measures to insure proper protection from children locating them. Be tactful but not intimidated. Think first on how to present your questions so as not to offend the other parent. Think about your reaction if asked the same questions. Call ahead and thank them for the invitiation and ask in general how will the children be supervised. Make sure you include any special concerns you have about your own childs behavior, likes, dislikes etc. Casually mention how children tend to brainstorm trouble when they’re together and ask about the presence of liquor, cigarettes, matches, guns etc. Remind them how curious you were as a child and that your parents made sure those items were always properly locked away. Safe is always better than sorry and any parent will understand that your priorities are in the right place - It will also help them feel more secure for their children when it’s your turn to host. |
| by Sarah Rachel Berry |
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