Image Credit: Contributed/RCMP
May 29, 2013 - 2:31 PM
Mounties recently responded to two complaints involving replica firearms and are asking the public to consider perception and personal safety when handling a firearm of any kind.
On May 26, Kelowna RCMP received two complaints within an hour of each other that youths were firing guns in public view. Investigators discovered air rifles were being used in each incident, in an inappropriate area. Earlier this month a replica air-soft rifle was seized and police say it was difficult to tell it apart from a real firearm.
Police respond to all firearms calls as real until proven otherwise, says Kelowna RCMP Const. Kris Clark. That means they're responding each time with necessary resources and time consuming tactics. As well, he says it's stressful for everyone involved because a firearms call, real or not, has the potential for disastrous consequences.
"Using or simply carrying a gun in public, even if it is a toy, can insight public fear and will undoubtedly cause a police response," says Clark.
When transported in a vehicle, guns should be properly secured in a case and not handled by any of the vehicle's occupants. Guns should also only be used in areas where it would be safe to do so, such as a firearms range.
Okanagan residents can take advantage of gun amnesty in June and get rid of unwanted guns, replica guns and ammunition.
Video Credit: Contributed/RCMP
Close up of air-soft replica rifle and actuation of the breach
News from © iNFOnews, 2013