Home Security on Long Island
Unfortunately, it’s not a simple case of buying a weapon and using it when the time comes. Ask any police officer or military member who is required to train on pistols and rifles on a regular basis, firing a gun requires skill, concentration and training. There’s no such thing as a ‘point-and-shoot’ weapon, especially at close range in a residential area. This is one of the major problems with firearms in the home—safe operation of the weapon in the situation it’s called for. If you are unwilling to kill another human being outright, a gun is not for you—at least not for protection purposes. A gun is designed only to kill. When a bullet enters the human body there is a high likelihood of striking a vital organ or major artery, which can eventually lead to death. There are no firearms designed “to wound”, just as there are no chainsaws designed for “light cutting”. Many people don’t understand this concept, buying guns for deterrent purposes only. The problem here is that in order to have an effective deterrent you must be competent in the primary function of the weapon. Whether or not you feel comfortable owning a gun is a personal matter, there are many good arguments on both sides of the firearms issue. The most critical aspect of owning and using a firearm is one of commitment. If you decide to own a gun, you are taking on a responsibility not only to store it in a safe and secure way, but also to know how to use it properly and what the consequences of using it can be. Those who buy a gun and simply store it until they feel it’s needed do themselves and their neighbors a huge disservice. If you are forced to use a gun in a home defense situation and you miss, what are the results? Does your bullet fly harmlessly into outer space? No. Chances are your bullet will strike somewhere you did not want it to go. For this reason, gun owners should regularly practice with their weapons to learn the proper firing technique, aiming and how to shoot on target. You cannot simply buy a gun and expect to use it accurately. If you become a gun owner, you should become proficient in its use in the same manner as you would a car or any other potentially dangerous tool. On Long Island, the LI Shooting Club (http://www.lisc.net) offers a firing range and gun rental for those who are curious about firearms but aren’t sure whether to purchase one or not. The shooting range, located at 130 Freeman Avenue in Islip, also features a selection of new and used firearms for you to consider. Keeping a firearm in the home is a big responsibility. Whether or not you decide to purchase, you need to make an informed decision and understand the liabilities, responsibilities and consequences of owning a weapon. The LI Shooting Club is only one resource you’ll need to make an informed decision—you’ll also need to understand New York legislation and city ordinances about firearm ownership, as well as any neighborhood covenants or homeowners association rules in your area. Consider carefully before buying. Also See Part 1 of Home Security Joe Wallace
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Many Long Islanders remember 2005’s home invasion issues and wonder if, in spite of the arrests made last year, they might one day become a target for a robbery at home. The need to feel safe and secure in one’s own home is very powerful; some feel the need to invest in firearms to protect themselves their families. 