County Giving Away Gun Locks at Moorestown Mall

After last week’s tragic shooting in Connecticut underscored the importance of storing firearms safely, Burlington County is offering free gun locks at multiple locations today, including the Moorestown Mall.

“Whether you are a gun owner or not, everyone can agree that firearm safety is paramount,” said Sheriff Jean Stanfield. “Gun locks are a simple way of adding a layer of security against gun-related injuries and deaths.”

She said her department has several hundred locks, which were made available through Project ChildSafe, a program developed by the National Shooting Sports Foundation and supported by a U.S. Department of Justice grant.     

Stanfield said the locks—which can be used to disarm pistols, revolvers, rifles and shotguns—also come with a manual that provides additional information on securing firearms safely.
   
This isn’t the first time the Sheriff’s Department has offered free gun locks; however, Stanfield said the tragedy in Connecticut, in which 27 people were murdered by a gunman who stole the firearms from his mother, serves to heighten the importance of storing and securing firearms safely.
       
Those who procure the locks will be asked, but not required, to write down their contact information, in the event additional information regarding gun safety or gun locks becomes available in the future. Twelve years ago there was a manufacturer recall, though no incidences related to the gun lock recall were reported.

“These locks are secured with a key, and are easy to install,” Stanfield said. “I urge every gun owner in the county to take advantage of this offer.”

The locks will be available today at the County Corner Store in Moorestown Mall, as well at all branches of the Burlington County Library. The branch libraries are located in Bordentown City, Cinnaminson, Evesham, Maple Shade, Medford, Pemberton, Riverton and Westampton.

“Obviously, this is an important service being offered to residents at a time when the mall is at its busiest,” said Tyler. “Hopefully, word will spread quickly that we have the locks, and they are free for the taking.”

Information provided by the Burlington County Sheriff’s Office