EL PASO COUNTY, Colo. (KRDO) — Congressman Jason Crow is pushing for a new national awareness day to promote child safety through responsible firearm storage.
Crow has introduced a resolution to designate June 21 as National ASK (Asking Saves Kids) Day, a date intended to encourage parents to ask whether unsecured firearms are present in homes where their children play.
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“Sadly, our Colorado community knows the pain of gun violence all too well,” Crow said. “As a dad, I believe that parents should not have to worry about their children being a victim of gun violence.”
The proposed day of awareness comes amid troubling statistics:
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Firearms are now the leading cause of death for children and teens in the U.S.
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On average, 22 young Americans are killed or injured by guns every day.
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Over 4.6 million children have access to unlocked guns in their homes.
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85% of unintentional shootings involving children happen at home.
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And 75% of school shootings involve guns sourced from a child’s own home or that of a relative or friend.
The June 21 date was chosen to align with the start of summer break, when kids and teens are more likely to visit friends’ homes and spend time unsupervised.
“It’s a simple question that could save a life,” said Crow. “That’s why I’m introducing a resolution to remind parents that secure firearms storage can go a long way in protecting our kids.”
The ASK campaign was originally launched in 2000 by the American Academy of Pediatrics and is now run by Brady: United Against Gun Violence, a national organization focused on preventing gun-related injuries and deaths.
Crow’s resolution aims to amplify this campaign at the federal level—bringing national attention to a straightforward but powerful practice: just ask if there’s an unlocked gun where your child plays.
