Gun Safety

SHERIFF MILLER URGES RESPONSIBLE GUN OWNERSHIP

Washington County, Indiana (October 27, 2022) - The Second Amendment and the right to bear arms are fundamental to the American way of life. As your sheriff, I support the right of gun ownership for all of our law-abiding citizens.

However, with gun ownership comes a tremendous responsibility to handle and store all firearms in a proper and safe manner.

"Many in our county own guns to protect themselves, their families and their properties, to hunt or just because they enjoy collecting firearms," said Sheriff Brent Miller.

"Most people probably don't realize the large number of firearms owned by civilians in America - an estimated 393 million. It's absolutely vital that citizens educate themselves about how to be a responsible gun owner."

Today, one in three U.S. adults personally own a gun and the majority - 66% - own more than one gun.

Sheriff Miller offers the following tips for safely having guns in your home:

• Firearms should always be stored unloaded and in a locked location, such as a gun safe.
• Adults must ensure that children cannot access guns or ammunition.
• Ammunition should be stored in a separate location from any guns.
• Treat every gun as if it is loaded.
• Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot.
• Utilize trigger locks or cable locks to prevent a gun from being fired until the device is unlocked and removed.
• Know how to use the gun safely. It is highly recommended that gun owners complete firearm safety training and a hunter's education course.
• Never use alcohol or drugs before or while handling a firearm.

"While having a firearm in your home does allow you an opportunity to defend yourself, having a gun in your home does add an element of risk for your family when not safely stored," said Sheriff Miller. The danger increases if you have young children or teens.

"As law enforcement officers, we have all witnessed first-hand the devastation that can result when a firearm is unintentionally discharged," said Sheriff Miller.

"Losing a loved one because someone got ahold of an unsecured weapon is unimaginable, but it certainly happens. I want Washington County residents to educate themselves and be committed to safely handling and storing firearms for the safety of their own families and the community at large."

If you'd like more information on how to safely store firearms, please contact the Washington County Sheriff's Department at 812-883-5999.