Burlington County Sheriff distributing free gunlocks

Sheriff Jean Stanfield announced today that she is offering free gun locks to firearm owners throughout the County, and that the child safety devices will be available at the County store in Moorestown Mall and all branches of Burlington County Library tomorrow.

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.

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

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

This is not the first time the Sheriff’s Department has offered free gun locks; however, said Stanfield, the tragic shooting of 27 individuals in Connecticut 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; no incidences related to the gunlock 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.”

County Clerk Tim Tyler said that the locks would be available at the County Corner Store in Moorestown Mall later today, and would be placed in plain view on the counter.

“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.”

In addition, County Librarian Ranjna Das was preparing to have the locks available at all the branches by tomorrow. The branch libraries are located in Westampton, Bordentown City, Cinnaminson, Evesham, Maple Shade, Medford, Pemberton, and Riverton.