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Testa A, Semenza DC, Anestis M. Storage of firearms in vehicles: findings from a sample of firearm owners in nine U.S. states. Inj Epidemiol 2024; 11:50. [PMID: 39256878 PMCID: PMC11386107 DOI: 10.1186/s40621-024-00525-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent years, there has been a growing number of thefts of firearms stored in vehicles. Despite this trend, there is limited research on firearm storage patterns in vehicles in the United States. This study investigates these storage patterns and evaluates the relationship between the surge in firearm purchases after March 2020 and the practice of storing firearms in vehicles. METHODS Firearm storage practices were classified into four categories: (a) no vehicle storage, (b) locked vehicle storage only, (c) unlocked vehicle storage only, and (d) both locked and unlocked vehicle storage. Multinomial logistic regression analyses were conducted to determine the association between vehicle firearm storage practices and the main independent variable (firearm purchases since March 2020), adjusting for covariates. RESULTS Those who purchased a firearm since March 2020 were significantly more likely to store at least one firearm in a vehicle unlocked only (RRR = 2.41, 95% CI 1.45-3.99) or both locked and unlocked (RRR = 2.57, 95% CI .180-3.67) compared to the reference category of no vehicle storage. CONCLUSION Individuals who purchased a firearm after March 2020 were more likely to report storing a firearm in a vehicle. Given the limited research on patterns of firearm storage in vehicles, these findings provide novel evidence suggesting that firearm purchases following the March 2020 firearm purchasing surge may have fomented behaviors that increased the likelihood of firearm storage in automobiles. Moving forward, there is a need for additional quantitative and qualitative research that can better understand patterns and motivations of firearm storage in vehicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Testa
- Department of Management, Policy and Community Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 1200 Pressler Street, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Daniel C Semenza
- Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Criminal Justice, Rutgers University, Camden, NJ, USA
- Department of Urban-Global Public Health, School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Michael Anestis
- Department of Urban-Global Public Health, School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
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Beidas RS, Linn KA, Boggs JM, Marcus SC, Hoskins K, Jager-Hyman S, Johnson C, Maye M, Quintana L, Wolk CB, Wright L, Pappas C, Beck A, Bedjeti K, Buttenheim AM, Daley MF, Elias M, Lyons J, Martin ML, McArdle B, Ritzwoller DP, Small DS, Williams NJ, Zhang S, Ahmedani BK. Implementation of a Secure Firearm Storage Program in Pediatric Primary Care: A Cluster Randomized Trial. JAMA Pediatr 2024:2822858. [PMID: 39226027 PMCID: PMC11372656 DOI: 10.1001/jamapediatrics.2024.3274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Importance Increased secure firearm storage can reduce youth firearm injury and mortality, a leading cause of death for children and adolescents in the US. Despite the availability of evidence-based secure firearm storage programs and recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics, few pediatric clinicians report routinely implementing these programs. Objective To compare the effectiveness of an electronic health record (EHR) documentation template (nudge) and the nudge plus facilitation (ie, clinic support to implement the program; nudge+) at promoting delivery of a brief evidence-based secure firearm storage program (SAFE Firearm) that includes counseling about secure firearm storage and free cable locks during all pediatric well visits. Design, Setting, and Participants The Adolescent and Child Suicide Prevention in Routine Clinical Encounters (ASPIRE) unblinded parallel cluster randomized effectiveness-implementation trial was conducted from March 14, 2022, to March 20, 2023, to test the hypothesis that, relative to nudge, nudge+ would result in delivery of the firearm storage program to an additional 10% or more of the eligible population, and that this difference would be statistically significant. Thirty pediatric primary care clinics in 2 US health care systems (in Michigan and Colorado) were included, excluding clinics that were not the primary site for participating health care professionals and a subset selected at random due to resource limitations. All pediatric well visits at participating clinics for youth ages 5 to 17 years were analyzed. Interventions Clinics were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive either the nudge or nudge+. Main Outcomes and Measures Patient-level outcomes were modeled to estimate the primary outcome, reach, which is a visit-level binary indicator of whether the parent received both components of the firearm storage program (counseling and lock), as documented by the clinician in the EHR. Secondary outcomes explored individual program component delivery. Results A total of 47 307 well-child visits (median [IQR] age, 11.3 [8.1-14.4] years; 24 210 [51.2%] male and 23 091 [48.8%] female) among 46 597 children and 368 clinicians were eligible to receive the firearm storage program during the trial and were included in analyses. Using the intention-to-treat principle, a higher percentage of well-child visits received the firearm storage program in the nudge+ condition (49%; 95% CI, 37-61) compared to nudge (22%; 95% CI, 13-31). Conclusions and Relevance In this study, the EHR strategy combined with facilitation (nudge+) was more effective at increasing delivery of an evidence-based secure firearm storage program compared to nudge alone. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04844021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rinad S Beidas
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Kristin A Linn
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology, & Informatics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia
| | - Jennifer M Boggs
- Kaiser Permanente Colorado Institute for Health Research, Aurora
| | - Steven C Marcus
- University of Pennsylvania School of Social Policy and Practice, Philadelphia
| | - Katelin Hoskins
- Department of Biobehavioral Health Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia
- Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
| | - Shari Jager-Hyman
- Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia
| | - Christina Johnson
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Melissa Maye
- Henry Ford Health, Center for Health Policy & Health Services Research, Detroit, Michigan
| | - LeeAnn Quintana
- Kaiser Permanente Colorado Institute for Health Research, Aurora
| | - Courtney Benjamin Wolk
- Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia
| | - Leslie Wright
- Kaiser Permanente Colorado Institute for Health Research, Aurora
| | - Celeste Pappas
- Henry Ford Health, Center for Health Policy & Health Services Research, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Arne Beck
- Kaiser Permanente Colorado Institute for Health Research, Aurora
| | - Katy Bedjeti
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Alison M Buttenheim
- Department of Family and Community Health, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia
| | - Matthew F Daley
- Kaiser Permanente Colorado Institute for Health Research, Aurora
| | - Marisa Elias
- Department of Pediatrics, Henry Ford Health, Royal Oak, Michigan
| | - Jason Lyons
- Kaiser Permanente Colorado Institute for Health Research, Aurora
| | - Melissa Lynne Martin
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology, & Informatics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia
| | | | | | - Dylan S Small
- Department of Statistics and Data Science, the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
| | | | - Shiling Zhang
- Henry Ford Health, Center for Health Policy & Health Services Research, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Brian K Ahmedani
- Henry Ford Health, Center for Health Policy & Health Services Research, Detroit, Michigan
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Anestis MD, Bryan CJ, Bryan AO, Capron DW. Threat perceptions, defensive behaviors, and the perceived suicide prevention value of specific firearm storage practices. Suicide Life Threat Behav 2024. [PMID: 39188061 DOI: 10.1111/sltb.13123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Secure firearm storage has been proposed as a suicide prevention method within the military; however, secure storage practices are uncommon. Service members may perceive limited value in secure storage as a suicide prevention tool and threat-related factors may influence such perceptions. METHOD A nationally representative sample of firearm-owning military service members (n = 719) was recruited between December 3, 2021 and January 4, 2022 to complete a self-report survey by Ipsos using their KnowledgePanel calibration approach to optimize representativeness. RESULTS Threat sensitivity was associated with less perceived suicide prevention value across all within-home storage practices as well as out-of-home storage. Defensive firearm ownership was associated with less perceived out-of-home storage value. Contrary to expectations, PTSD symptoms were associated with greater perceived suicide prevention value across all storage practices and intolerance of uncertainty was associated with greater perceived out-of-home storage value. DISCUSSION Perceptions of, sensitivity to, and reactions to threat represent a complicated confluence of factors that may influence firearm views and behaviors in disparate ways. Viewing the world as dangerous and other people as a threat may limit perceived suicide prevention value for secure storage and increase the drive for firearm access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D Anestis
- New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, School of Public Health, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
- Urban-Global Public Health, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Craig J Bryan
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - AnnaBelle O Bryan
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Daniel W Capron
- Department of Psychology, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA
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Anestis MD, Bond AE, Semenza DC. Differences in reasons for secure and unsecure firearm storage: Results from a representative cross-sectional study of nine states. Prev Med Rep 2024; 44:102813. [PMID: 39099773 PMCID: PMC11295948 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2024.102813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives To examine factors that differentiate firearm owners who endorse specific reasons for secure and unsecure firearm storage. Methods A subsample of firearm-owning adults (n = 3,119) drawn from a representative sample of adults (n = 7,785) residing in nine US states participated in an online survey. Results The most common reason for not always using a gun safe was concerns that they render firearms too slow to access during an emergency (60.2%). The most common reasons for current firearm storage were ensuring ready access in case of emergency (59.7%) and preventing access by children and adolescents (44.6%). Firearm owners varied on their reasons based upon current storage habits, reasons for ownership, and the presence of firearms in the home. Conclusions Firearm owners with children in the home are more likely to select storage methods they feel will prevent access by vulnerable individuals, whereas those who own for defensive purposes and those who store firearms loaded and unlocked are more likely to endorse storing their firearms for quick home defense and convenience and to see gun safes as unnecessary obstacles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D. Anestis
- New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Allison E. Bond
- New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Daniel C. Semenza
- New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Rutgers-Camden, Camden, NJ, USA
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Bandel SL, Moceri-Brooks J, Bond AE, Semenza D, Anestis MD. US Residents' Recognition of Proper Use of Firearm Cable Locks. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e2415064. [PMID: 38837162 PMCID: PMC11154157 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.15064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
This survey study examines the ability of firearm owners and nonowners to determine correct and incorrect cable lock use across different types of firearms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shelby L. Bandel
- New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, Rutgers School of Public Health, West Piscataway, New Jersey
- Department of Psychology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, West Piscataway, New Jersey
| | - Jayna Moceri-Brooks
- New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, Rutgers School of Public Health, West Piscataway, New Jersey
| | - Allison E. Bond
- New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, Rutgers School of Public Health, West Piscataway, New Jersey
- Department of Psychology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, West Piscataway, New Jersey
| | - Daniel Semenza
- New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, Rutgers School of Public Health, West Piscataway, New Jersey
- Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Criminal Justice, Rutgers University–Camden, Camden, New Jersey
| | - Michael D. Anestis
- New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, Rutgers School of Public Health, West Piscataway, New Jersey
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Bond AE, Stanley I, Bandel SL, Anestis M. Law enforcement and firearms: understanding firearm ownership and storage habits. Inj Prev 2024; 30:132-137. [PMID: 37875335 DOI: 10.1136/ip-2023-044919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study seeks to better understand firearm ownership among law enforcement officers (LEO), with the goal of informing future firearm injury and suicide prevention efforts. We describe the frequency and sociodemographic correlates of firearm ownership and storage practices among, and examine the association between suicidal ideation and current firearm storage practices. METHODS The present study used data from a large online study (n=6410) and included data from individuals who were currently or previously being employed as an LEO (n=369; M (SD) age=39.2 y (15.8 y), 75.2% male, 66.7% white). Self-report measures were used to assess for firearm ownership, storage habits and suicidal ideation. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the frequency of firearm ownership and logistic regressions were used to examine the extent to which demographic characteristics and suicidal ideation were associated with firearm ownership. RESULTS Overall, 70.5% (n=261) of the sample reported firearm ownership. LEO who were older had significantly lower odds of reporting firearm ownership. Those who were married and those who reported lifetime suicidal ideation had significantly greater odds of reporting firearm ownership. Whereas firearm-owning LEO who reporting storing a firearm locked had significantly lower odds of reporting lifetime suicidal ideation, those who reported storing a firearm unloaded had significantly greater odds of reporting lifetime suicidal ideation. CONCLUSION Findings have important public health implications and can be used to increase adherence with secure storage recommendations. Increasing secure storage may help reduce suicide risk among LEO, a sample at heightened risk for suicide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison E Bond
- Psychology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
- New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Ian Stanley
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Shelby L Bandel
- New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
- Department of Psychology, The State University of NJ, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Michael Anestis
- New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
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Anestis MD, Moceri-Brooks J, Ziminski D, Barnes RT, Semenza D. Firearm Access and Gun Violence Exposure Among American Indian or Alaska Native and Black Adults. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e240073. [PMID: 38436959 PMCID: PMC10912965 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.0073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance American Indian or Alaska Native and Black adults experience elevated rates of firearm injury and death, but both groups are severely underrepresented in research on firearm exposure and behaviors. Objective To explore geodemographic differences in firearm behaviors and violence exposure among American Indian or Alaska Native and Black adults in the US. Design, Setting, and Participants In this survey study, nationally representative samples of American Indian or Alaska Native and/or Black adults recruited from KnowledgePanel were surveyed cross-sectionally. Surveys were administered online between April 12 and May 4, 2023. Main Outcomes and Measures Firearm access, storage, and carrying behaviors and lifetime firearm violence exposure were the primary outcomes. Demographic factors such as age, geographic location, and political affiliation were considered. Data were weighted to geodemographic distributions from the US Census Bureau's 2022 Current Population Survey. Results Of 3542 participants, 527 (14.9%) were American Indian or Alaska Native (280 [53.1%] female) and 3015 (85.1%) were Black (1646 [54.6%] female). Both groups exhibited high firearm access rates (American Indian or Alaska Native adults: 238 [45.4%; 95% CI, 39.4%-51.7%]; Black adults: 909 [30.4%; 95% CI, 28.0%-32.9%]), predominantly owning handguns for home protection. The groups demonstrated similar firearm storage patterns, and a substantial proportion endorsed always or almost always carrying firearms outside the home (American Indian or Alaska Native adults: 18.9%; Black adults: 15.2%). Self-protection was a common reason for carrying a firearm (American Indian or Alaska Native adults: 104 [84.9%; 95% CI, 74.1%-91.7%]; Black adults: 350 [88.3%; 95% CI, 82.3%-92.4%]), and a minority of participants cited lack of faith in the police (American Indian or Alaska Native adults: 19 [15.2%; 95% CI, 8.2%-26.7%]; Black adults: 61 [15.4%; 95% CI, 10.3%-21.2%]), indicating potential shifts in public safety dynamics. Conclusions and Relevance In this survey study of American Indian or Alaska Native and Black US adults, a substantial percentage of both groups reported living in homes with firearms, storing firearms loaded and unlocked, frequently carrying firearms outside the home, and having been exposed directly and indirectly to gun violence. These findings underscore the need for nuanced public health campaigns and policies and highlight challenges for law enforcement in contexts of racial disparities and changing legal frameworks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D. Anestis
- New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway
- School of Public Health, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway
| | - Jayna Moceri-Brooks
- New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway
| | - Devon Ziminski
- New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway
- Senator Walter Rand Institute for Public Affairs, Rutgers University–Camden, Cinnaminson, New Jersey
| | - R. Thurman Barnes
- New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway
- School of Public Health, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway
| | - Daniel Semenza
- New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway
- School of Public Health, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway
- Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Criminal Justice, Rutgers University–Camden, Cinnaminson, New Jersey
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Betz ME, Meza K, Friedman K, Moceri-Brooks J, Johnson ML, Simonetti J, Baker JC, Bryan CJ, Anestis MD. 'Whether it's your weapon or not, it's your home': US military spouse perspectives on personal firearm storage. BMJ Mil Health 2023:e002591. [PMID: 38135459 DOI: 10.1136/military-2023-002591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In the USA, an estimated 45% of veterans personally own firearms. Firearm access increases the risk of suicide, so suicide prevention efforts in the US Department of Defense (DoD) focus on lethal means safety, including reducing firearm access. Spouse input may enhance effective messaging and intervention delivery of lethal means safety. This study used qualitative methods to explore the perspectives of military spouses or partners on personal firearm storage, including at-home decisions, on-base storage and existing messaging from the DoD. MATERIALS AND METHODS Qualitative data were obtained using 1:1 interviews and focus groups with spouses/partners of US military service members (active duty, Reserve, National Guard, recently separated from the military) and representatives from military support organisations. Sessions focused on personal firearm storage (at home or on military installations) and military messaging around secure firearm storage and firearm suicide prevention. Data were analysed using a team-based, mixed deductive-inductive approach. RESULTS Across 56 participants (August 2022-March 2023), the themes were variability in current home firearm storage and spousal participation in decision-making; uncertainty about firearm storage protocols on military installations; mixed awareness of secure firearm storage messaging from the military; and uncertainty about procedures or protocols for removing firearm access for an at-risk person. CONCLUSION US military spouses are important messengers for firearm safety and suicide prevention, but they are currently underutilised. Tailored prevention campaigns should consider spousal dynamics and incorporate education about installation procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marian E Betz
- Department Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Firearm Injury Prevention Initiative, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - K Meza
- Department Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Firearm Injury Prevention Initiative, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - K Friedman
- Department Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Firearm Injury Prevention Initiative, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - J Moceri-Brooks
- New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - M L Johnson
- Department Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Firearm Injury Prevention Initiative, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - J Simonetti
- Firearm Injury Prevention Initiative, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center for Suicide Prevention, Veterans Health Administration, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - J C Baker
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - C J Bryan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Center of Excellence for Suicide Prevention, VA Finger Lakes Health Care System, Canandaigua, New York, USA
| | - M D Anestis
- New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
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Gastineau KAB, McKay S. Firearm Injury Prevention. Pediatr Clin North Am 2023; 70:1125-1142. [PMID: 37865435 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcl.2023.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
Firearms are the leading cause of death for US youth, overtaking motor vehicle collisions in 2020. Approximately 65% are due to homicide, 30% are due to suicide, 3.5% are due to unintentional injuries, 2% are undetermined intent, and 0.5% are from legal interventions. In homes with firearms, the likelihood of unintentional death, suicide, and homicide is three to four times higher than those without firearms. Secure storage of firearms, having them locked, unloaded, and separate from ammunition can prevent unintentional firearm injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey A B Gastineau
- Department of Pediatrics, Monroe Carell Jr Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt and Vanderbilt University Medical Center.
| | - Sandra McKay
- Department of Pediatrics, McGovern Medical School at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 6431 Fannin Street, JJL 480, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Villarreal RI, Stanley IH, Anestis MD, Buck-Atkinson J, Betz ME. Older Adults' Preferences Regarding Firearm Locking Device Use: Results of a National Survey. Clin Gerontol 2023:1-11. [PMID: 37994864 DOI: 10.1080/07317115.2023.2285994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Use of firearm locking devices may reduce the risk of suicide and injury among older adults. This study describes older adults' preferences when choosing a firearm locking device. METHODS We conducted a secondary analysis of a nationally representative survey of US adult firearm owners (N = 2,152). We compared older adults (≥65y) with relatively younger adults (<65y), stratified by self-reported gender. RESULTS The top three factors cited as impacting firearm locking device selection included speed (53.6%) and ease of firearm access from device (52.4%), and cost of the device (28.7%). These top factors were comparable for all adults across genders. A larger proportion of older vs younger males reported that a primary preference was whether the device allows the firearm to remain loaded with ammunition; smaller proportions of older vs younger males reported strength of device (device durability) and costs. CONCLUSIONS Preference among older adults, particularly older males, for locking devices that maintain the firearms easy to access - especially, loaded with ammunition - might impact firearm injury prevention efforts for this high-risk group. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS For harm reduction, use of any firearm locking device may reduce the risk of firearm injury or death. Clinicians are encouraged to explore reasons for locking device selection within motivational interviewing frameworks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo I Villarreal
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Center for COMBAT Research, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Ian H Stanley
- Center for COMBAT Research, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Firearm Injury Prevention Initiative, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Michael D Anestis
- New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
- School of Public Health, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Jessica Buck-Atkinson
- Firearm Injury Prevention Initiative, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Marian E Betz
- Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Firearm Injury Prevention Initiative, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- VA Eastern Colorado Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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Anestis MD, Moceri-Brooks J, Johnson RL, Bryan CJ, Stanley IH, Buck-Atkinson JT, Baker JC, Betz ME. Assessment of Firearm Storage Practices in the US, 2022. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e231447. [PMID: 36862408 PMCID: PMC9982690 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.1447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Secure firearm storage may help reduce firearm injury and death. Broad implementation requires more granular assessments of firearm storage practices and greater clarity on circumstances that may prevent or promote the use of locking devices. OBJECTIVE To develop a more thorough understanding of firearm storage practices, obstacles to using locking devices, and circumstances in which firearm owners would consider locking unsecured firearms. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS A cross-sectional, nationally representative survey of adults residing in 5 US states who owned firearms was administered online between July 28 and August 8, 2022. Participants were recruited via probability-based sampling. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Firearm storage practices were assessed via a matrix provided to participants in which firearm-locking devices were described both via text and images. Locking mechanisms (key/personal identification number [PIN]/dial vs biometric) were specified for each type of device. Obstacles to the use of locking devices and circumstances in which firearm owners would consider locking unsecured firearms were assessed via self-report items developed by the study team. RESULTS The final weighted sample included 2152 adult (aged ≥18 years), English-speaking firearm owners residing in the US; the sample was predominantly male (66.7%). Among the 2152 firearm owners, 58.3% (95% CI, 55.9%-60.6%) reported storing at least 1 firearm unlocked and hidden, with 17.9% (95% CI, 16.2%-19.8%) reporting storing at least 1 firearm unlocked and unhidden. Gun safes were the most frequently used device both among participants who use keyed/PIN/dial locking mechanisms (32.4%; 95% CI, 30.2%-34.7%) and those who use biometric locking mechanisms (15.6%; 95% CI, 13.9%-17.5%). Those who do not store firearms locked most frequently noted a belief that locks are unnecessary (49.3%; 95% CI, 45.5%-53.1%) and a fear that locks would prevent quick access in an emergency (44.8%; 95% CI, 41.1%-48.7%) as obstacles to lock usage. Preventing access by children was the most often reported circumstance in which firearm owners would consider locking unsecured firearms (48.5%; 95% CI, 45.6%-51.4%). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE In this survey study of 2152 firearm owners, consistent with prior research, unsecure firearm storage was common. Firearm owners appeared to prefer gun safes relative to cable locks and trigger locks, indicating that locking device distribution programs may not match firearm owners' preferences. Broad implementation of secure firearm storage may require addressing disproportionate fears of home intruders and increasing awareness of the risks associated with household firearm access. Furthermore, implementation efforts may hinge on broader awareness of the risks of ready firearm access beyond unauthorized access by children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D. Anestis
- New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, Piscataway
- School of Public Health, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway
| | - Jayna Moceri-Brooks
- New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, Piscataway
- School of Public Health, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway
| | - Rachel L. Johnson
- Department of Biostatistics and Informatics, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora
| | - Craig J. Bryan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus
| | - Ian H. Stanley
- Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora
- Center for COMBAT Research, Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora
| | | | - Justin C. Baker
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus
| | - Marian E. Betz
- Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora
- Firearm Injury Prevention Initiative, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora
- VA Eastern Colorado Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, Denver
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