In a recent government meeting, Arlington Mayor Jim Ross proclaimed August 2024 as Gun Safety Awareness Month, highlighting the critical need for safe gun storage and handling practices to protect children. The proclamation emphasized alarming statistics, noting that between 2020 and 2023, Cooks Children's Hospital treated 208 gun-related injuries, primarily occurring at home and often unintentionally.

The mayor pointed out that firearms are among the leading causes of death for individuals aged 14 and younger, with an average of 132 firearm-related injuries reported daily in 2020. Furthermore, studies indicate that 70-90% of guns involved in youth suicides and unintentional shootings are sourced from homes or the residences of relatives and friends.

The meeting featured contributions from community advocates, including Cheryl Carver and Officer Cody Adams, who have been pivotal in promoting gun safety education. Carver shared her personal motivation for this initiative, stemming from a tragic incident in 2017 involving a child who died from a gunshot wound inflicted by a sibling.

To combat these issues, the AIM for Safety program was established, providing gun safes and locks to families in need. The initiative aims to equip communities with the necessary tools to enhance safety and prevent gun-related tragedies. Additionally, a new hospital intervention program is set to launch, targeting violent injuries across Tarrant County, including Arlington and Fort Worth, with the goal of reducing such incidents in the future.