October 8, 2003

Novi - Michigan State Police posts in Southeast Michigan will begin distributing free firearm safety kits as part of Project ChildSafe, a nationwide initiative to raise awareness about safe and responsible firearm ownership and storage. Citizens can pick up the free kits at their nearest Michigan State Police post starting on Friday.

Project ChildSafe, which is funded by a $50 million grant from the U.S. Department of Justice and managed by the National Shooting Sports Foundation, seeks to encourage secure storage of firearms in homes, with the goal of helping to prevent firearm-related accidents, especially among children. The free firearm safety kits include a cable-style gun lock and a safety brochure that discusses safe handling and proper storage procedures for firearms.

Each of the seven MSP posts in Southeast Michigan (see list for addresses and phone numbers) will receive approximately 200 safety kits for distribution on a first come, first serve basis. Citizens do not need to bring their gun with them to receive a gun lock, and may request one lock for every weapon in the household. The kits will be available starting October 10 from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m., and after that, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. while supplies last.

Contact your nearest Michigan State Police post for more information.

LOCATIONS WHERE FREE FIREARM SAFETY KITS CAN BE OBTAINED:

Detroit Post Executive Plaza Building
1200 Sixth St.
Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 256-2990