The Rockdale County Sheriff's Office is set to host a free citizen gun safety class on Aug. 8, first come, first served.

Rockdale residents are encouraged to sign up for an upcoming gun safety class that will be offered at the RCSO.

The class is designed to give citizens of Rockdale County training on handgun safety. Applications are now being accepted for the safety course which will consist of a classroom portion and time at the RCSO range. The class will be limited to 25 participants. Class will be held on Saturday August 8th from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Attendees are required to bring their own lunch.

Course topics will include basic firearms safety, current gun laws, and basic nomenclature of the revolver and semi-automatic handguns. At the end of the classroom portion of the course, participants will get the chance to use their firearm at the Rockdale County Sheriff's Office firing range under the supervision of certified firearms instructors from the Rockdale County Sheriff's Office.

"The citizens firearm classes are taught by certified firearms instructor of the RCSO and teach citizens valuable lessons that pertain to handguns," said Sheriff Eric J. Levett. "I'm always asked about these classes when I go to events and I am proud that the RCSO can continue to educate citizens of Rockdale County on safety issues when it comes to weapons. The purpose of this class is to not only educate citizens on the proper and safe use of a firearm, but to also explain what the gun laws are and how they affect a citizen. "

Requirements for the course are as follows: must be a resident of Rockdale County; must be at least 21 years of age; must not have been convicted of a felony; must bring a legal, modern handgun that will pass instructor inspection for safety and reliability; must bring your own ammunition; and must adhere to all rules of the RCSO firing range, which will be taught during the classroom portion of the course.
Those interested in taking the course can pick up an application in person at the Rockdale County Sheriff's Office from the Judicial Bureau or download a copy from the Rockdale County Sheriff's Office website.

Applications include basic participant information, course requirements and a background check. Completed applications must be turned in at the RCSO to Lieutenant Darold Vissering, along with a copy of your driver's license.

The Citizen's Firearms Safety Courses are free of charge.