PAST INCIDENTS AND DATA
Using a firearm is no more, or less, dangerous than any other form of outdoor activity. However, when looking at the statistics, events, causes and external factors, it is widely acknowledged that many of the firearm-related incidents that occurred could have been avoided!
The below information has been sourced from the New Zealand Mountain Safety Council.
THE FACTS
“There were 628 non-intentional firearm incidents between
01/01/2004 - 31/03/2016.”
- Only 5% were misidentified shootings.
- Two thirds of firearm incidents were due to poor firearm handling.
- Only 2% of firearm incidents were a direct result of faulty or malfunctioning firearms.
“4 events of the 628 could not be classified.
”
71% of accidental shootings happened at a distance of 50m or closer.
There were 22 non intentional firearm fatalities between 01/06/2007 - 20/06/2016.
“37% of small game hunters who shot themselves are under 25yrs old.”
77% of Game bird shooting injuries either accidentally shot them selves or someone else!
“42% of small game hunter firearm serious injuries were caused by an air rifle.”
Over half the injuries sustained whilst hunting small game were caused by shooting themselves!
“27% of firearm fatalities involved people between the age of <16-24yrs old.”
“58 (91%) happened during daylight hours.
6 (9%) happened in darkness at night.”
