Brewton Police are planning a special class for women who want to learn about gun safety and operation.

Sgt. Steven Ferguson said space for the class is limited and the deadline for registration is nearing.

“We are only offering the class to 20 women for this first class,” Ferguson said. “We need to have everyone registered for the class by Dec. 1 so that preparations can be made. The class will be held Saturday, Dec. 17 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.”

Although the class is focused on handgun safety, Ferguson said there are other components of the class geared toward females.

“We hope this will be a fun class for everyone,” Ferguson said. “We will be doing some shooting and it could give women who’ve had doubts about firing a gun an idea of whether it’s something they want to do or not.”

There is no charge for the class and Ferguson said all equipment will be provided for participants.

“We will have the guns, ammunition, eye and ear protection for everyone,” Ferguson said. “The only thing they need to bring is themselves. This is just something the Brewton Police Department wanted to provide to our citizens.”

Ferguson said he and Officer Travis Minchew would serve as class instructors. Both are certified firearms instructors.

“We will be focusing on firearms safety but this will also give women a chance to see if shooting a gun is something they even want to try,” Ferguson said. “We have a lot of guns in this area and it never hurts to know about safety. We hope that there will be some women who will find it interesting enough to take up shooting for safety or for recreation.”

Ferguson also said participants won’t be forced into taking part in any portion of the class if they are uncomfortable.

“We will have a shooting portion of the class at our firing range at the end of the day,” Ferguson said. “If there is anyone who isn’t comfortable with that portion of the class, we won’t force them into doing it. We want this to be a fun, learning experience for everyone.”

Registration for the class can be done at the Brewton Police Department at Brewton City Hall on Douglas Avenue. A valid drivers license is required for registration.

For additional details, contact Janet or Valerie at the Brewton Police Department at 867-3212.