Handle with care

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Alexandra M. Longfellow
  • 2d Bomb Wing Public Affairs
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. --  The National Rifle Association's most recent report states there were 30,896 firearm- related deaths in the United States per year.

There are several safety measures one can take to prevent weapon misuse within the home - beginning with proper storage.

Residents living in base housing are allowed to keep firearms in their house with written permission. Dorm residents are not allowed to keep weapons in their room, but may store them in the base armory with written approval from their chain of command.

"Since most people do not have a dedicated facility to store a weapon, Airman can store their firearms in the base armory," said Tech. Sgt. Michael Shortle, 2d Security Forces Squadron combat arms instructor.

Everyone owning a firearm, including those living off base still have to register with the armory. There are many affordable options for weapons storage off base.

"A fire safe is good for pistols and a lockable cabinet is good for rifles," said Sergeant Shortle. "Many sporting goods shops sell lockable gun cabinets under $200, and they will keep your firearms away from children."

Gun owners can also ensure weapon safety within their home by keeping the firearm disassembled, parts stored at separate locations and storing ammunition away from the firearm. Those who are not keen on this option can also purchase a lock that makes it difficult to discharge the firearm. Locks are commonly designed so they cannot be forcibly removed without permanently disabling the weapon. However, locks are considered less effective than keeping firearms stored in a lockable safe since locks are more easily defeated than approved safes.

Everyone should keep in mind that firearms are inherently dangerous and must always be handled with care. Owners must handle weapons safely and are strongly discouraged from playing or toying with firearms - as both are a common cause of accidents.

Training is available to prevent injury, damage or unintentional death due to improper handling of firearms. Target practice increases precision and the chance of the intended target getting hit. Additionally, there is a variety of educational tools available to Airmen.

"If attending a base firearms class, Airmen will receive a weapons safety briefing," said Tech. Sgt. Alfred Eide, 2d SFS combat arms instructor. "The instruction manual that came with their weapon is filled with weapon safety tips. Also, Airmen can go to a NRA basic shooters course."

With the proper education and training, the number of firearm accidents can greatly decrease. For more information on firearm safety visit the NRA website at www.nra.org or contact the combat arms office at 456-4328.