Approximately 7 million children in the United States live in homes with loaded and unlocked firearms, according to a new study published in JAMA Network Open.

The research found that parents are more likely to leave guns loaded and unlocked when they have teenage children in the household, despite data showing that suicide risk increases for this age group.

The study highlights ongoing concerns about firearm safety in American homes, particularly regarding secure storage practices. Gun safety advocates have long emphasized the importance of properly storing firearms to prevent accidental shootings and reduce access during moments of crisis.

The findings come as policymakers and public health officials continue to debate measures to reduce gun violence and improve safety protocols for households with both children and firearms.

The research adds to a growing body of evidence examining the intersection of gun ownership and child safety, providing data that may inform future discussions about storage requirements and safety education programs.