Gun related suicides fall after gun buyback

[TarJak]

http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2...30/2996838.htm

I find a more interesting stat is at the end of the SMH article below. The complete eradication of multiple shootings in Australia in the 13 years since the buyback scheme was introduced. That is no mad bugger went into his local school, McDonalds or other public place and shot a lot of people. Prior to the buyback we would get one or two a year.

http://www.smh.com.au/national/howar...829-13xne.html

[TLAM Strike]

I believe we already have a thread dealing with the effects of this Australian gun buy back program.

[TarJak]

Originally Posted by TLAM Strike

I believe we already have a thread dealing with the effects of this Australian gun buy back program.

Not quite. but nice try.

[bookworm_020]

Originally Posted by TLAM Strike

I believe we already have a thread dealing with the effects of this Australian gun buy back program.

On a serious note,

I saw the article as well and was surprised by it, in particular the same note about multiple shootings. The fact that it also reduced the number of firearms about that people could use to end their life helped, but I do fear that they will find other ways to end it if they don't get the help they need.

[TarJak]

Originally Posted by bookworm_020

On a serious note,

I saw the article as well and was surprised by it, in particular the same note about multiple shootings. The fact that it also reduced the number of firearms about that people could use to end their life helped, but I do fear that they will find other ways to end it if they don't get the help they need.

No doubt. Even before the buyback the number of gun suicides was only a fraction each year of the total. My best man for one topped himself with an overdose of painkillers.

[Weiss Pinguin]

Originally Posted by TarJak

My best man for one topped himself with an overdose of painkillers.

Ouch, sorry to hear that

[TarJak]

It was very upsetting at the time. If only there was a way of restricting access to the other methods. But of course being resourceful humans the suicides would still find other methods anyway.

[FIREWALL]

I heard rope sale were on the rise and, so were hangings.

Not quite the brightest idea to use for an armed robbery.

[bookworm_020]

Originally Posted by TarJak

It was very upsetting at the time. If only there was a way of restricting access to the other methods. But of course being resourceful humans the suicides would still find other methods anyway.

Unfortunately I see a lot of people try. Being a train driver, it's one of the on the job hazards. The number of people who do try (and succeed) has fallen with CCTV, better fences, lighting and more people keeping an eye out, but it still happens and will sadly continue.

One suicide on a rail line can directly effect over 100 people who have to deal with it.