MERIDIAN, Idaho — Project Childsafe is a nationwide program that partners up with local law enforcement agencies to educate the public on safe storage and handling of firearms around children.
Every year free firearm safety locks are made available to participating police agencies courtesy of Project Childsafe. This week, you can pick yours up at the Meridian Police Department Monday through Friday from 9 am to 4 pm while supplies last.
The Meridian Police Department says there were 25 reported cases of injury or death resulting from a firearm in 2020. Meridian Police Chief Tracy Basterrechea says the department partnership with Childsafe and the free locks they provide is essential because many people cannot afford proper storage like gun safes.
"A lot of households have guns, but we want to make sure that we're keeping those guns in a safe condition and safe manner so that if a child happens to get a hold of one, they won't be injured," said Chief Basterrechea.
Children are not the only ones at risk of being injured. In Meridian, Police say they respond to more firearm accidents in adults than children.
"Adults cleaning the firearm, handling the firearm drop it and discharges and improper procedures with clearing the firearm or securing it, those kinds of things," said Lieutenant Berle Stokes.
