A common concern for many gun owners is keeping their children safe while still owning guns in the home. And while properly storing one’s firearms in a gun vault is an excellent first step in being responsible with guns, there is more that parents can do to make sure their children know what to do (and what not to do) with a gun.

One of the most important things a parent can teach a child is the fundamentals of firearm safety. Even though you may be able to prevent children from accidentally accessing a gun in your own home through the use of a gun vault or a lock, this still does not guarantee that they will not stumble across a firearm in the home of a friend.

One step toward creating a safe environment for children is teaching them why you own a gun and explaining basic facts about firearm use and safety. Help children understand that a gun is not a toy.

The NRA and many state organizations also offer classes and certification courses that emphasize firearm safety as a part of their training (including courses designed for children). Taking children of an appropriate age to one of these courses can also help them better understand how to properly use a firearm and to respect it for what it is.