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Registration is currently underway for children ages 8 to 12 to participate in the Caddo Sheriff’s Office "First Gun Course." 

The 4-hour class will be offered from 8 a.m. until noon on  January 7, 2023.  All classes will be held at the Sheriff's Regional Law Enforcement Training Academy, 15639 Highway One South. (About 17 miles South of the Port of Shreveport)

Designed for kids only, the course provides basic instruction for those who may never have fired a gun but want to be able to use one safely.  It's also recommended for kids who will receive a new BB gun, shotgun, or hunting rifle for Christmas. 

“If you plan on giving your child a gun for Christmas, it would be a good idea to register for this class,” Sheriff Steve Prator said.  “This way, they can learn about basic firearms safety and be in front of certified law enforcement academy firearms instructors when they shoot their new gun for the first time."

Children are welcome to attend the course with BB guns, pellet guns, .22 rifles, and small caliber shotguns. No high-powered rifles will be allowed. Only BB's and .22 ammunition will be supplied by the training academy.  

Through generous donations by local citizens, and local wholesalers, those children without a gun can use one supplied at the academy.  Participants will shoot skeet and also fixed targets supplied by the National Rifle Association Foundation.

There's no cost for the course, but pre-registration is required.  Space is limited, and Caddo Parish residents will be given preference.  An adult must remain with the child throughout the course. To register, call 681-0875.