Monroe, MI – Elementary students across Monroe County are receiving new safety lessons this week as the Eddie Eagle GunSafe® program is introduced into local schools, focusing on preventing firearm-related accidents among children.
According to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, the initiative is a partnership between local law enforcement, the D.A.R.E. board, and superintendents from nine Monroe County school districts. The program officially launches Tuesday and will be taught in participating classrooms throughout the county.
The Eddie Eagle GunSafe® program has been used nationwide for more than 30 years and is designed to teach children what to do if they ever encounter a firearm. Developed by a task force of educators, school administrators, psychologists, law enforcement officials, and firearm safety experts, the program delivers four simple safety steps: Stop. Don’t touch. Run away. Tell a grown-up.
Sheriff officials say the program first began in 1988 and was updated in 2015 with a refreshed version of the Eddie Eagle character, while maintaining the same core safety message. The goal is to provide age-appropriate education without promoting or encouraging firearm use.
The Sheriff’s Office emphasized that the program takes a neutral approach to firearms and focuses strictly on child safety, similar to lessons about swimming pool safety, fire drills, or electrical hazards. Officials note that firearms are present in approximately half of American households, making awareness and prevention education an important topic for children.
Educators involved in the rollout say the program complements existing lessons on stranger danger, internet safety, and emergency preparedness already taught in schools.
Parents with questions about the Eddie Eagle curriculum are encouraged to contact their local school district or the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office for more information.
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