GADSDEN– The Gadsden State Community College Police and Public Safety Department will host its annual free Civilian Firearms Class on Saturday, Nov. 14.

The program begins at 8:30 a.m. at the Beck Conference Center on the Wallace Drive Campus. The conference center is located at 203 College Drive in Gadsden.

The class is open to individuals 18 and older. The course aims to increase participants’ confidence in firearm handling. It also covers firearm safety, self-defense, and situational awareness.

Chief Jay Freeman said the department wants to give community members practical knowledge as the holiday season approaches.

“At Gadsden State, we are dedicated to empowering our communities with the knowledge and skills necessary to keep themselves and their loved ones safe,” Freeman said. “Our Civilian Firearms Class provides citizens with an opportunity to learn firearm safety, understand their legal responsibilities and gain practical skills, especially as we approach the busy holiday season.”

Freeman also said the course goes beyond learning how to handle a firearm.

“This class is not just about firearms,” Freeman said. “It is about equipping individuals and families with the confidence, knowledge and awareness needed to protect themselves. We encourage families to come together, train together and become better prepared together through this valuable training.”

Class Schedule and Requirements

First, classroom instruction will run from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Beck Conference Center. The department will also provide lunch.

Afterward, live range training will take place from noon to 2 p.m. Certified firearms instructors from multiple law enforcement agencies will lead both sessions. In addition, law enforcement departments from across the region will support the training.

The course will cover pistol-shooting basics, firearm types and functions, firearm safety, situational awareness, avoiding danger, and the legal responsibilities of gun ownership.

Each participant must bring a functioning handgun, a proper holster, eye protection, ear protection, and 50 rounds of ammunition.

The class has limited space. Those wishing to register may contact Emily Feemster at efeemster@gadsdenstate.edu or 256-549-8611. They may also contact Freeman at jfreeman@gadsdenstate.edu or 256-549-8672.

Additional information is available at GadsdenState.edu/Safety.