Berlin Police firearm instructors and members of the Special Response Team lead a presentation on safe handling and storage during the department’s first Firearms Safety Session for residents and business owners on November 12.
The Berlin Police Department held its first-ever Firearms Safety Session for residents and business owners on November 12, offering an informative and engaging evening focused on responsible gun ownership and safety practices.
The session, which took place at 6 p.m., featured a detailed presentation led by Berlin Police firearm instructors and members of the department’s Special Response Team. Attendees were provided with questionnaires covering firearms laws and safety procedures, followed by an open question-and-answer segment.
Lt. Joshua Smith said the department developed the program as part of its continued commitment to both training and community engagement. “We are huge in training as well as community-oriented policing. This type of program provides both to our residents, and has been something we have been planning for a long time as a service to our residents and local business owners,” he explained.
The presentation covered key topics such as firearm handling, storage, purchasing, licensing, and possession. According to Smith, the goal was to give participants a clear understanding of their responsibilities as gun owners while promoting safe practices that protect the entire community.
“It is very important,” Smith emphasized. “Weapons are meant to be handled accordingly, and can have catastrophic outcomes when not handled, secured and stored properly. We promote weapon safety as well as the right to own or not own weapons based on personal preference.”
The department hopes participants left with valuable insights that can help prevent accidents and promote safe habits. “Even if they take one tip for safety, it will be a win for us and the attendees,” Smith said.
All firearms-related inquiries and registrations in New Jersey are conducted through the New Jersey State Police firearms website before being processed by local police departments.
As for future events, Smith said the department will evaluate feedback and attendance before planning additional sessions. “That will be dependent upon the type of outcome and response our first session has, as well as gun laws and topics as they advance or change,” he noted.
Smith also highlighted how programs like this strengthen trust between law enforcement and the community. “Whether gun owner or supporter or not, someone can always learn something new about firearms, supporting laws, and safety,” he said. “Providing programs like this continue to show our commitment to all people in our town as a full-service police department capable of many positive outcomes and community-based programs.”
The Berlin Police Department plans to continue offering educational initiatives designed to inform, connect, and serve residents while reinforcing a shared commitment to public safety.
