Louisiana Sheriff Offers 'First Gun Course' for Kids Ahead of Christmas

On Christmas morning, a number of children will wake up to find their first gun, whether it be an air gun, a shotgun or a hunting rifle, nestled under the tree.

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But it’s important these kids know that these gifts aren’t toys like that Nerf Blaster or Super Soaker they received the year before. That’s why Louisiana Sheriff Steve Prator is offering a free gun safety course for youngins this December, known as the “First Gun Course.”

The four-hour class, which will run from 8 a.m. until noon, is open to children ages 8 to 12. All kids must be accompanied by an adult for the entirety of the class.

Sheriff Prator will first go over basic gun safety. Then the children will then get the chance to try skeet shooting and firing at fixed targets, which were provided by the National Rifle Association Foundation.

“Children who will receive a gun for Christmas can try it for the first time in front of certified law enforcement academy firearms instructors,” Sheriff Prator tells the ArkLaTex Homepage. “Parents are wise to want their children to know basic firearms safety before a gun is given as a gift.”

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Kids can bring their own air guns, including BB and pellet guns, .22 caliber rifles, or small caliber shotguns to practice with. Those who don’t already have a gun will be provided one thanks to local residents, wholesalers and Walmart who donated supplies for the course.

Prator is holding the class at the Sheriff’s Regional Law Enforcement Training Academy in Caddo Parish two Saturday’s in a row, Dec. 9th and 16th. While the course is free, registration is required for space is limited.

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