Eddie Eagle

Firearm safety program mascot

Eddie Eagle is the mascot of a firearm safety program developed by the National Rifle Association (NRA) to teach children about gun safety. The program is designed to educate children in pre-kindergarten through third grade about what to do if they encounter a firearm. The primary message of the program is "Stop! Don't Touch. Leave the Area. Tell an Adult."

History

The Eddie Eagle GunSafe® Program was created in 1988 by the NRA with the goal of reducing firearm-related accidents among children. The program was developed in response to concerns about the number of children injured or killed in firearm-related incidents. Since its inception, the program has reached millions of children across the United States.

Program Content

The Eddie Eagle program is structured around a simple, four-step message that is easy for children to remember. The steps are:

1. Stop!
2. Don't Touch.
3. Leave the Area.
4. Tell an Adult.

These steps are designed to be a straightforward and effective way for children to respond if they encounter a firearm.

Educational Materials

The program includes a variety of educational materials, such as workbooks, animated videos, and classroom activities. These materials are designed to engage children and reinforce the safety message. The program also includes resources for parents and educators to help them discuss gun safety with children.

Eddie Eagle program cover

Implementation

The Eddie Eagle program is implemented in schools, community groups, and law enforcement agencies across the United States. The program is often delivered by trained instructors who use the materials provided by the NRA to teach children about gun safety. The program is non-political and does not promote firearm ownership or use.

Criticism and Controversy

While the Eddie Eagle program has been praised for its efforts to promote gun safety among children, it has also faced criticism. Some critics argue that the program does not adequately address the issue of gun violence and that it places too much responsibility on children to avoid firearms. Others have raised concerns about the NRA's involvement in the program and its potential influence on the content.

Related pages

• Gun safety
• Firearm safety
• National Rifle Association