Albany police to conduct free firearms course for citizens

ALBANY — The Albany Police Department will conduct a free one-day basics firearms course for citizens on March 19 at the Albany Law Enforcement Center.

According to Phyllis Banks, spokeswoman for the APD, the course is for the benefit of individuals who have recently purchased a handgun or are planning to purchase one. It will provide information on the legal requirements of gun ownership as well as basic user skills, she said.

“We’re starting to see a lot more people with handguns and we encourage everyone to take that extra step toward being safe and responsible with their weapons,” Banks said.

While the course is offered on a first-come, first-served basis to those age 21 or over, applicants must successfully complete a criminal background check through the APD in order to participate.

Banks said the course will begin at 8 a.m. with an informational talk by Dougherty County District Attorney Greg Edwards on the basic points of Georgia’s “carry” law, which allows permit holders to bring loaded handguns, open or concealed, to many public venues.

Following the talk on legal issues, course participants will receive classroom instruction on safe handling of their weapons, including grips, “lining up” and sighting, and other preparations.

Finally, participants will move to the police firing range at Turner Field in Dougherty County for a hands-on demonstration and actual shooting.

According to Banks, participants must provide their own handguns, eye and hearing protection, ammunition and a “ball-type” cap. Long guns, such as rifles and shotguns, are not allowed.

The application deadline for the course is March 11, Banks said, with applications available at the front desk of the Albany Law Enforcement Center, 201 W. Oglethorpe Blvd. Forms also may be downloaded from the city of Albany website, www.albany.ga.us/.

For additional information contact Phyllis Banks at (229) 483-6298.