The Sheriff's Department in Caddo Parish, Louisiana is inviting children to participate in the "Kids First Gun Program," which will teach young children how to safely operate firearms.

The four hour course, which will be held this Saturday, January 12th, is recommended for children who received a new BB gun, shotgun or hunting rifle for Christmas or for those who may already have a gun.

Sheriff Steve Prator told Shreveport Times, "Children who will receive a gun for Christmas can try it for the first time in front of certified law enforcement academy firearms instructors.

"Parents are wise to want their children to know basic firearms."

Children between the ages of 8 and 12 are welcome to attend the course with BB guns, pellet guns, .22 rifles, and small caliber shotguns.

The course is free and is sponsored by donations from local citizens, Walmart, and local wholesalers. Children without a gun can use a gun that will be supplied by the academy, according to Shreveport Times.

All children must be accompanied by an adult.

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