Children are at risk of being killed or injured by a gun if their parents own a gun because many guns obtained for self-defense are kept loaded and within reach of children. This brief fact sheet presents statistical information relating to accidental deaths involving young people and firearms. Safety measures are suggested for preventing accidental shootings, such as keeping guns locked up and requiring trigger locks or loading indicators. Support is given for stricter gun control legislation affecting gun manufacturers. Includes one graph on unintentional firearm mortality rates by gender and age group. (RB)