NCJ Number
100254
Date Published
1985
Length
138 pages
Annotation
This guide describes the Handgun Safety Program developed by the Police Executive Research Forum for national dissemination and reports on its implementation and results in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Abstract
The program relies on local police departments, in cooperation with other public and private organizations and agencies, to publicize the importance of handgun safety using a variety of specially developed materials. These include handgun safety guidelines, an 8-minute videotape, a stand-up display for pamphlets, posters, and a set of television, radio, and newspaper advertisements (three each). The Charlotte Police Department piloted this program for a 30-day period, using the materials in conjunction with presentations to community organizations, including Neighborhood Watch groups, schools, and the public housing authority. Police communicated successfully that handguns must be stored, maintained, and used with care. The steps in implementing this campaign, including staff training and selection, coordination, followup activities and responses are described, and recommendations for subsequent implementations are presented. Cost and resource considerations are addressed, and suggestions are made for limited programs, cyclical and packaged campaigns, and incremental program development. Materials used in the Charlotte campaign are appended.