11/05/24
Gadsden State Police/Public Safety Department Hosting Inaugural Basic Civilian Firearm Training
GADSDEN, AL – The Gadsden State Community College Police and Public Safety Department is hosting an inaugural Basic Civilian Firearm Training course on Saturday, Dec. 7, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Wallace Drive Campus, Beck Conference Center.
The free course, open to all 18 years or older, is designed to help individuals improve their confidence with using firearms, in addition to learning about situational awareness and self-defense techniques.
“At Gadsden State, we are dedicated to empowering our community with the knowledge and skills necessary to keep themselves and their loved ones safe. Our inaugural Civilian Basic Firearms Class offers citizens the chance to acquire essential skills in firearm safety, understand the legal responsibilities of ownership, and learn practical steps to protect their families—especially as we approach the busy holiday season,” said Gadsden State Police Chief Jay Freeman. “Our goal is to provide valuable and responsible training that boosts confidence and enhances a sense of security within our community.”
Participants will benefit from hands-on training led by firearm-certified instructors, focusing on a range of topics, including:
- Basics of Pistol Shooting
- Types of Firearms
- Firearm Safety
- Situational Awareness and Avoiding Danger
- Legal Discussion
The event will feature two sessions: classroom instruction from 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and live shooting range opportunities from noon to 2 p.m.
To ensure participants are adequately prepared for the training course, the following items are required:
- Proper holster
- Eye protection
- Ear protection
- 50 rounds of ammunition
- A functioning handgun
The classroom instructional session will begin at Beck Conference Center, 203 College Drive, located on the Wallace Drive Campus of the College.
For more information or to register for the training, email Emily Feemster at efeemster@gadsdenstate.edu, call 256-549-8611 or Chief Freeman at jfreeman@gadsdenstate.edu, call 256-549-8672.
The Gadsden State Police and Public Safety Department is committed to providing the highest level of safety and security to the college and surrounding communities. We offer a range of training programs, community outreach initiatives, and safety resources to promote a safe and informed community. To find out more about the opportunities presented, visit GadsdenState.edu/Safety.
Chief Freeman and firearm-certified instructors from Gadsden State’s Police and Public Safety Department and other agencies work alongside basic civilian firearm training participants.