South Middlesex Times

New Jersey residents are split on the efficacy of firearms in providing protection against intruders in the home, as revealed by the latest Rutgers-Eagleton Poll conducted in collaboration with the New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center.

According to the poll results, opinions vary widely regarding the impact of storing a firearm in one's home for protection. The data shows that 32 percent of respondents believe that having a firearm in the home does not lower the risk of an intruder causing harm, while 18 percent think it only slightly lowers the risk, 20 percent believe it moderately lowers the risk, and 25 percent are of the opinion that it greatly reduces the risk. Five percent of participants were unsure about the level of protection firearms offer.

Regarding the risks associated with firearms in the home, the survey found that New Jerseyans are divided. Thirty-three percent of respondents stated that a firearm in the home does not increase the risk of death by suicide or accidental shootings, while 23 percent believe it slightly increases the risk, 13 percent think it moderately increases the risk, and 25 percent believe it greatly increases the risk. Six percent expressed uncertainty on the matter.

Associate Professor Michael Anestis, from the Rutgers School of Public Health and the New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, emphasized the dangers associated with having firearms in the home, stating, "Having a firearm in the home dramatically increases the risk of suicide for all members of the household, while also increasing risk for unintentional shootings and fatal domestic violence."

Ashley Koning, the director of the Eagleton Center for Public Interest Polling at Rutgers University, highlighted the need for public education on the realities of firearm ownership, noting the disconnect between public perception and statistical data on the risks of firearms in the household.

The poll also revealed demographic disparities in opinions on firearms. Republicans were more likely to believe that firearms in the home lower the risk of harm from intruders, while Democrats expressed concerns about the increased risk of harm to household members. Men, middle-aged residents, and those with lower levels of education were more inclined to believe that firearms do not pose a significant risk to household members.

The survey further indicated a rise in the number of New Jerseyans reporting firearms in their homes, with a notable increase compared to pre-pandemic levels. Koning noted, "Gun permits are rising in the Garden State, and our numbers within the past year have certainly reflected this."

The poll, conducted among 1,657 adults in New Jersey, highlighted the ongoing debate among residents about the benefits and risks associated with firearms in the home.