Tennessee offers free safety gun locks

NASHVILLE, Tennessee (WDEF) – A local state lawmaker is encouraging people to take advantage of a state program for gun safety.

The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security (TDOSHS) is offering free cable gun locks to gun owners.

You can request them at Driver Services Centers and Tennessee Highway Patrol district headquarters statewide.

Click here for more information on the locks and where you can pick one up in your county.

State Representative Greg Vital from Harrison says the cable lock can secure most shotguns, rifles, pistols and revolvers by running through the barrel or action of the firearm to keep it from firing.

“As gun owners, we have a responsibility to ensure our firearms are stored safely and securely,” Vital said.

“Not only will this help prevent accidental shootings, but it can also prevent theft and save lives as well. I encourage gun owners in Hamilton County to take advantage of the Safe Store Tennessee program if they do not have one of these important safety devices.”

State officials also advise keeping your ammo in a separate locked container and hiding the keys.