The Newton County Sheriff's Office is accepting applications for firearm safety courses to be offered in May.

The courses will be held from 8 a.m. to noon on May 14 and 21 at the Newton County Law Enforcement Training Center, 15151 Alcovy Road. Participants must attend both classes to receive a certificate of completion.

The course will consist of information on laws governing the use of deadly force, firearm safety at and away from the range and basic nomenclature of the revolver and semi-automatic pistols. Participants will also have an opportunity at the sheriff's office weapons range to fire their weapons.

Participants must be at least 21, consent to and pass a criminal background check and produce a valid Georgia' driver's license. They also must furnish their own firearm and ammunition. Firearms must be in good, serviceable condition and a caliber of less than .380 will not be allow at the weapons range.

Applications can be obtained from the sheriff's office and those accepted will be notified by email. Registration must be received by May 6.

For more information, contact Range Master Deputy Wayne Scott at (678) 625-1542 or Agency Training Coordination Lt. Paul Gunter at (678) 625-1444.