Free gun locks to be distributed
Published 9:08 pm Wednesday, March 30, 2016
The Suffolk Sheriff’s Office will distribute free gun locks Friday to shoppers outside Farm Fresh in North Suffolk.
Deputies will set up outside the grocery store, at 3675 Bridge Road, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., said Suffolk Sheriff’s Maj. E.C. Harris. The gun lock distribution is part of Project ChildSafe, a national campaign that promotes firearm safety and storage through law enforcement organizations.
At the same time, the Sheriff’s Office will collect nonperishable foods to donate to Bethlehem Christian Church’s food pantry, Harris said.
“There is a huge need for food out there today,” he said.
The gun locks will fit any firearm, he said.
The department will also be giving away activity books that teach children about gun safety, Harris said. He urged parents to sit down with their children and use the materials to teach them about firearm safety.
“Children are so curious … and there are no do-overs if they get their hands on a gun and something goes wrong,” said Harris.
It’s important for adults to keep firearms unloaded and locked up out of children’s reach, Harris said.
Also, gun owners should store weapons and ammunition in separate locations in the house, further avoiding the possibility of an accidental shooting, he added.