Firearm vs replica comparison. Image supplied by RCMP
FORT McMURRAY — Wood Buffalo RCMP are warning youth and parents about the potentially serious consequences of carrying imitation firearms in public following an increase in reported firearms incidents in recent weeks.
Police say several of the incidents involved youth carrying, brandishing or pointing what were later determined to be imitation firearms.
Imitation firearms can include airsoft, pellet and BB guns, as well as toy or prop guns designed to resemble real firearms.
RCMP warn officers responding to a firearms complaint may not be able to distinguish an imitation firearm from a real weapon and must initially treat the firearm as real.
All firearms calls are treated as a top public safety priority, and police say displaying an imitation firearm in public can cause fear, prompt emergency calls and trigger a police response.
Wood Buffalo RCMP say they have zero tolerance for firearms-related offences and will pursue legal consequences associated with the misuse of imitation firearms.
Police are urging people not to carry imitation firearms in public and to use them only for their intended purposes in appropriate locations.
Parents and guardians are also being encouraged to discuss the risks with their children and ensure airsoft, pellet and BB guns are securely stored when not in use.
“A moment of poor judgment can have serious consequences,” said Cpl. Natasha Lytwenko, public information officer for Wood Buffalo RCMP, in a media release.
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