Copyright 2019 Nexstar Broadcasting, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Caddo Sheriff offers "first gun" safety class for kids

CADDO PARISH, La. - Registration is currently underway for children ages 8 to 12 to participate in the Caddo Sheriff’s Office "First Gun Course."



The 4-hour class will be offered from 8 a.m. until noon on two dates - Dec. 17 and Jan. 7.



All classes will be held at the Sheriff's Regional Law Enforcement Training Academy, 15639 Hwy 1 South.

Designed for kids only, the course provides basic instruction for those who may never have fired a gun but

want to be able to use one safely. It's also recommended for kids who will receive a new BB gun, shotgun,

or hunting rifle for Christmas.



Sheriff Steve Prator said, “Children who will receive a gun for Christmas can try it for the first time in front of certified law enforcement academy firearms instructors,” .



Prator added, “Parents are wise to want their children to know basic firearms safety before a gun is given as a gift.”



Children are welcome to attend the course with BB guns, pellet guns, .22 rifles, and small caliber

shotguns. No high-powered rifles will be allowed.



Only BB's and .22 ammunition will be supplied by the training academy.



Through generous donations by local citizens, Wal-Mart, and local wholesalers, those children without a gun can use one supplied at the academy. All children will shoot at both fixed targets and skeet.



There's no cost for the course, but pre-registration is required. Space is very limited, and Caddo Parish

residents will be given preference. An adult must remain with the child throughout the course.



To register, call Deputy Edith Pinkston at the Community Programs Division at (318) 681-0875.