Belmont joins gunlock program

"Gunlocks are effective," said San Mateo Police Sgt. Kevin Raffaelli. "If somebody has a gun on their night stand -- and don't have a gunlock -- they might not think before reaching for the gun. But a gunlock creates a thought process when you're looking for a key, which could prevent someone from doing something foolish." The Belmont Police Department began distributing more than 500 gun safety locks for free to the public yesterday in an attempt curb accidental shootings over the holiday season.

"We were really concerned about family members in homes with guns. We hope to help people protect their children from firearms. It's a good promotion time so close to the holidays," said Shino Tanaka, a clerk for the Belmont Police Department

Two types of locks are being distributed, including both the key-trigger lock and the cable lock. The key trigger lock is oval shaped and fits into the trigger housing -- it can be locked with a key, fits most pistols, rifles, and shotguns and comes with a lifetime guarantee.

The cable lock slides a cable through the barrel of a semi-automatic gun and is good for just about every type of gun according to Tanaka.

"If they have young children they have to keep them locked up," said Sgt. Robyn Pitts of the Belmont Police Dept. Pitts also added that while people who own guns and do not have children can leave their guns out in the open, any person who owns a gun should take extra precautionary measures such as keeping their weapon in a lock box or gun case.

Persons interested in participating in the gunlock program should bring identification with a current address to the Belmont Police Station located at 1215 Ralston Ave. or call (650) 595-7400. <