When it comes time to arrange for care of an elderly family member, the challenge can take an unexpected twist when grandpa’s old gun is discovered in the attic.
From trophies carried home by returning soldiers to family heirlooms tucked out of sight for decades the question often asked is “Now what do I do with it?”
“It is not an uncommon call received by the Chilliwack RCMP from caregivers of relatives suffering from diminishing capacity through age or mental health,” said Chilliwack RCMP Cpl. Rodney Wagner. “These folks have complied with the rules and regulations all of their life but now family is not sure what to do with a firearm.”
The most efficient means of disposing of an unwanted firearm is to surrender it to a police or firearms officer.
However, it has to be done correctly.
“Do not transport firearms to your local RCMP detachment or local authority,” said Chilliwack RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Mike Rail. “Contact us in advance to make arrangements for an officer to come to your location.”
If you have a firearm in need of disposal, contact the Chilliwack RCMP non-emergency line dial 604-792-4611.
For further information on safe disposal and firearms regulations visit the RCMP’s Canadian Firearms Program online.
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