$Unique_ID{BRK00106}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Is an Air Gun a Dangerous Toy?}
$Subject{bb gun safety accidents Community social Air Guns Toy accident eyes
eye abdominal chest injuries injury wound wounds Toys rifle rifles}
$Volume{Q-21, O-21}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Is an Air Gun a Dangerous Toy?


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QUESTION:  My grandson got an air gun for Christmas.  I think it is a
dangerous toy.  What do you think?

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ANSWER:  An air gun (or BB gun) should not be considered a toy at all.  Air
guns with gas cartridges or a multiple pump action are capable of shooting a
projectile at a speed almost as great as a conventional handgun.  But because
they are thought of as toys, parents do not supervise their use properly and
tragic accidents occur.
     Carelessly fired air guns can cause eye injuries, abdominal injuries, and
chest wounds.  BB's have even been known to penetrate the skull.  According to
government statistics, 85,500 people visited hospital emergency rooms because
of air gun injuries.
     You don't mention the age of your grandson, or more importantly, how
mature he is.  If he is interested in using his air gun properly, see about
enrolling him air gun safety programs sponsored by the U.S. Jaycees and the
Daisy Manufacturing Company.  If your grandson is not interested in using his
air gun safely, he shouldn't have it.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.