Police speak about gun safety after accidental discharge ahead of Memorial Day

(KLFY)- According to the Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Violence SolutionsNearly 500 people die each year in America from accidental shootings. Using a firearm without proper training can result in serious injury to you or someone you know.

After a accidental discharge of a firearm resulted in the death of a personNews 10 spoke to New Iberia Police about important gun safety tips.

“A person should not be in possession of a firearm unless they have proper training in the use of firearms,” said Leland Laseter of the New Iberia Police Department.

Laseter said if you own a firearm, make sure it is kept in a safe place where it cannot fall into the wrong hands.

“A firearm should always be kept in a safe place, out of the reach of children, especially so that they cannot access it.”

He said handling a firearm can be dangerous, especially when it is loaded. Laseter said people who use firearms should make sure there are no bullets in the weapon before picking it up.

“Whenever you handle a firearm, for example when cleaning it or transporting it from one place to another, you should always make sure it is unloaded. Have someone behind you double-check that the weapon is loaded.”

As Memorial Day approaches, it is important for people to be aware of their surroundings when they decide to shoot into the air, Laseter said.

“People also like to shoot their guns in the air to celebrate during these times. When a bullet flies into the air, it has to come back down. If it hits a person, it can cause serious injuries.”

Laseter said he wished everyone a happy Memorial Day, but stressed that safety is more important, especially when guns are involved.

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