Publication Date: June 2011
What does it say?
Firearm owners were more likely than those with no guns at home to engage in risky behaviors related to alcohol such as binge drinking and drinking and driving. Heavy alcohol use was most common among firearm owners who also engaged in behaviors such as carrying a gun for self-defense and keeping a loaded, unlocked gun at home.
Researchers analyzed data from 15,474 respondents in 7 states in 1996 and 1997, the most recent years available. The seven states were Colorado, Hawaii, Mississippi, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Dakota, and Ohio.
The study builds on at least 7 previous studies finding similar associations between guns and heavy and/or chronic alcohol use.
How can I use it?
Use this evidence to fight the National Rifle Association's efforts to make it easy to carry a loaded hidden handguns just about anywhere in public, including college campuses and bars.
Citation
Wintemute, Garen J, "Association Between Firearm Ownership, Firearm-Related Risk and Risk Reduction Behaviors and Alcohol-related Risk Behaviors," Injury Prevention, June 13, 2011, online first
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