Group to Give Away Gun Safety Locks

A group known for holding candlelight vigils to commemorate murder victims plans to give away gun safety locks as soon as the first shipment arrives.

Officials of the Faith Connection, a group based at the North Oxnard United Methodist Church, said the distribution could begin this week.

The locks--which retail for $4 to $5--are lengths of cable that go through a gun’s barrel and chamber similar to how a bicycle lock works.

Some gun owners who rely on their weapons for protection argue that the devices cannot be undone quickly in emergencies. However, proponents contend that the extra moments needed to unlock and load the gun might be just enough to cool down volatile domestic situations.

“This might be enough time for some thoughtfulness to come into play,” said Rev. Larry Wayman of the Faith Connection. The group has modeled its program on one in Glendora, where two churches have given away more than 300 locks.

Rev. Karen Komsak Davis, of the First Christian Church of the Disciples of Christ in Glendora, said many families with small children have taken advantage of the giveaway.

The Faith Connection is asking local congregations and other organizations to help in the distribution. “We expect they’ll go quickly,” Wayman said.

Oxnard Police Chief Art Lopez said safety locks can deter accidents by keeping loaded guns out of the hands of youngsters.