AIR GUN INJURIES IN CHILDREN - A CONTINUING CAUSE FOR CONCERN

Air guns are commonly used for sporting entertainment. The inappropria te use of these weapons often leads to injury. Tn general, trauma infl icted by air weapons is trivial. However, the potential for more serio us and fatal injuries is significant. We report two cases of serious a ir gun injury in children and a review of the relevant legislation cov ering the use of air weapons in the UK. Enhanced public education and awareness as well as coordinated policies by organizations involved in the care of children is desirable to prevent future calamities involv ing air weapons.