At 42 North Gun Range in Stockbridge, Jason Ingrem says firearm sales top 5,000 in a typical year, while he estimates customers buy roughly 50 lock boxes over the same period. The comparison reflects that range alone, not a statewide count.
Ingrem says gun owners are responsible for keeping firearms away from unauthorized people, especially children. Some may hesitate to use traditional lock boxes because they want quick access in an emergency, he said. A fingerprint-operated biometric safe is one alternative he recommends.
Federal law requires licensed dealers to provide a secure-storage or safety device as part of a handgun transfer. Georgia has no statewide law generally requiring owners to lock firearms when they are not in use. California, Massachusetts and Oregon have adopted storage requirements that apply in certain circumstances.
DeKalb County District Attorney Sherry Boston said her office addresses accidental shootings involving children through prosecution and prevention. It also conducts firearm-storage education throughout the year. Boston said she hopes that outreach encourages owners to secure their guns and keep them away from children. The office has a free lock-box program.
42 North offers firearm-safety classes. People interested in signing up can contact the store.
Marcus Jones
News Now Georgia
