The tragic accidental death of a three-year-old child in Algood Thursday reinforces the importance of gun safety.
Police Chief Dale Armour said the incident served as “a wake up call.” Armour said any unattended firearm should be left unloaded and safely stored away.
“I think sometimes people do become too comfortable that they think nothing is going to happen,” Armour said. “The little girl yesterday (last week) she was able to obtain this fire arm and was able to pull the trigger on it. I think that is something that we should all talk about with our children.”
Armour said his department offers gun safety tips for the general public to take advantage. Armour said any gun owners can also receive free gun locks. Armour said the device only opens with a code and prohibits the trigger from moving.
“We welcome anyone that may not be familiar with fire arms, we would be happy to talk to them and show them safe storage facilities and features of the gun,” Armour said. “I think any police department in the county would be happy to do that for any resident.”
Armour said if you have a firearm in you car for self-protection, the gun should be on your person or under your control at all times. Armour said it is a safe practice to also keep the ammunition locked in a separate area to avoid accidents.