Firearm Violence Prevention
Firearm Violence and Children
Resources for Clinicians & Education for Families
Firearm violence is a public health issue. In 2020, firearm-related injuries became the leading cause of death for U.S. children and teens aged 1-19. Pediatricians can engage, educate, and advocate to prevent injury and deaths due to firearms. We've compiled resources, webinars, and practical guidance to help you integrate firearm screening and safety into your clinical workflows.
What Pediatricians Can Do
Firearm Anticipatory Guidance and Education
- Provide anticipatory guidance: Normalize and personalize conversations regarding safer firearm storage, including “smart” gun safety technology or removal of firearms from the home.
- Perform age-appropriate, evidence-based mental health screening for depression and suicide risk to identify youth at risk for self-harm or for harming others.
- Make sure your clinic is a place where firearms are restricted.
- Encourage families to ask about firearms where their children visit and play.
Read More from AAP Guide to Start Conversations on Playdates & Gun Safety
A Call to Action
Pediatricians can be a strong voice for policies that support gun violence prevention, gun safety and safe storage, and more. Make your voice heard and actively support gun violence prevention.
AAP Advocacy AAP Firearm Injury Prevention Group
What is Happening in Illinois
Laws & Groups Working on Gun Safety
Some important laws exist in Illinois to restrict access to illegal guns and support evidence-based methods for reducing gun violence, but there is work to be done. The following organizations are working to promote gun safety and end gun violence in Illinois. We encourage you to learn more about their work to supplement your understanding and practices around gun safety.
One Aim Illinois, in partnership with the Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence, has a fact sheet on the current gun laws in Illinois that can be read here.
Everytown is the largest gun violence prevention organization in America.
Moms Demand Action is a grassroots movement of Americans fighting for public safety measures that can protect people from gun violence. Moms Demand Action works in communities throughout the country and has a chapter in every state.
The Lake County Gun Violence Prevention Initiative partners with community and law enforcement to address the root causes of gun violence, and implement proven short-term and long-term strategies, to immediately interrupt cycles of gun violence.
Firearm Access and Youth Suicide Risk
Firearms are the most lethal means of suicide, and their presence in the home significantly elevates the risk for adolescents. Studies indicate that youth with access to firearms are more likely to experience suicidal ideation and attempts. These evidence-based resources help you counsel families on safe firearm storage, aiming to reduce the risk of suicide among children and teens.
Understanding the Firearm Restraining Order in Illinois
Firearms are now the leading cause of death among children in Illinois, presenting an urgent call to action for pediatric clinicians across the state. As health care professionals dedicated to the safety and well-being of children and adolescents, pediatricians are uniquely positioned to recognize risks, guide families, and support prevention efforts—even when they cannot take direct legal action themselves.
Using the FRO Toolkit
This toolkit is designed to help pediatric clinicians understand and navigate Illinois’ Firearm Restraining Order (FRO) law. While clinicians cannot petition for a FRO, they can play a powerful role in educating patients and families about the process, connecting them to resources, and promoting safe firearm storage practices that reduce risk and save lives.
Inside, you’ll find:
- A clear overview of what a FRO is and how it functions under Illinois law
- Practical strategies for supporting families considering a FRO
- Guidance on safe firearm storage counseling and education
- Downloadable resources for in-clinic use and family distribution
- Social media messaging to extend firearm safety awareness beyond clinic walls
Download FRO Toolkit Quick Facts & Guidance on IL's FRO
Resources for Families
Use these materials in your clinic; share them with patients and families. Additional materials are available for you to post and use on your social media channels.
Normalizing Gun Safety as Part of a Regular Health Routine
These materials outline safe firearm storage and acknowledge diverse reasons for gun ownership while emphasizing child safety. By integrating these materials into routine care, you can foster nonjudgmental, respectful dialogues that promote secure storage practices and protect children from preventable injuries.
Firearm Storage Take Home for Patients
Poster on Storing Dangerous Household Items
Normalizing Gun Safety Social Media Campaign
Where to Find Free Gun Locks in Illinois
Secure Firearm Storage Tips for Families
Talking with Parents About Gun Safety Before Playdates
Just like asking about pets, food allergies, or adult supervision, talking about firearms in the home should be a normal part of planning a playdate. Research shows that kids are naturally curious, often know where guns are stored, and may handle them if they find them.
How to Talk About Firearm Safety with Other Parents
Poster on How to Talk About Firearm Safety with Other Parents
Talking to Children About Gun Violence
NEW!
Everything You Need, In One Place: The Firearm Injury Prevention Toolkit for Illinois Clinicians
A digital hub built for Illinois pediatricians with clinical resources and shareable materials for patients and families. Whether you're looking for how to respond to a safety concern, support a family in crisis, or learn more about what is happening in Illinois, what you need is organized and linked in one place. Inside the toolkit you’ll find:
- Illinois law and the Firearm Restraining Order (FRO) Information
- Clinical Guidance and Screening Tools
- Outreach Materials for Patients & Families
- Illinois Data & State Resources
- A List of Partner Organizations
- Resources for Supporting Patients and Families After a Shooting