Photo by Helena Lopes on Unsplash
Sadly, accidental shootings happen far more often than you might think. We often are left feeling guilty in the aftermath. Whether people came out unscathed, injured, or perhaps deceased, we have to learn to cope with the fact that the accident happened.
While accidental gunshot wounds only account for about 1% of deaths, the numbers are still pretty high. According to statistics, 27,000 people were treated for unintentional firearm discharge in 2020 alone. Each year, there are about 430 deaths.
If you or someone you know has been affected by an accidental shooting, it’s important to know the available resources. Here are a few.
Austin Police Department & Emergency Response
In the immediate Austin area, the police department offers support when this kind of thing happens. They are a resource for you. While they will have to investigate what happened, they will also offer you support through the process.
They understand as much as the rest of us that accidents happen and those accidents can be tragic for you. Allow them to do their job, and lean on them throughout the process.
Support Groups & Counseling
Depending on the situation that led to the shooting, chances are there will be remedial trauma. There could be feelings of guilt or grief. Just know that you are not alone. If you are struggling to cope with the aftermath, find available support and utilize it.
If you know someone who has been affected and you suspect they need additional support, try to help them find a resource.
There is more than one way to be supported. You can find support groups where you meet with other individuals who have experienced traumatic circumstances. You can also seek professional counseling to help work through the emotions you are experiencing.
Accidental Shootings Cleanup
If an injury or a fatality occurred from the shooting, you will need scene cleanup. You shouldn’t try to handle that on your own. Not only will it be very challenging to handle; it’s simply not safe for you to clean up unprepared.
Blood and bodily fluids are considered biohazards. Cleaning up when an area has been affected requires specific steps and safety protocols. In addition, after the cleanup, sanitation and disinfecting steps will need to be followed as well.
Finding a biohazard cleaning company you can trust is the best way to handle this step.
Austin Bio Clean
If you or someone you know has been affected by accidental shootings, we can help. Not only will Austin Bio Clean safely clean any affected spaces, but we also have access to resources to help you. We never want you to feel alone when you face a tragedy like this.
Keep your support system close and know who you can call to be on your side. Our teams provide rapid response with 24/7 availability. We are owned and operated locally in the Austin, Texas area and proudly serve Austin/Central Texas.
