Childhood injuries caused by nonpowder firearms.

Motivated by four penetrating brain injuries to children caused by BBs, a study was undertaken to (1) assess the danger posed by nonpowder guns and rifles and (2) evaluate current regulations pertaining to these products. Data from the US Consumer Product Safety Commission indicate that there are many nonpowder firearm injuries, predominantly among males aged 5 to 24 years. Nonpowder firearm injuries are close in prevalence to those caused by powder firearms and include fatalities. More than one fourth of reported nonfatal injuries are to the eye, face, head, or neck. Despite the hazard they pose, nonpowder firearms are regulated loosely, such that young teens can legally purchase and use the products in most jurisdictions. We propose stricter regulations and other means to prevent serious and fatal nonpowder firearm injuries.