An important safety device for guns will be handed out at some National Night Out/Night to Unite events in Hennepin County on Tuesday.

The Hennepin County Sheriff's Office and the Hennepin County attorney's office will distribute free gun locks (while supplies last) and provide information about responsible gun ownership.

The lock is a cable-style device, similar to a bike lock, and its design helps to prevent unauthorized access to a firearm, particularly by young children.

"National Night Out is an opportunity to urge residents to learn about keeping their families safe and this message is important," Sheriff Rich Stanek said in a statement.

Minneapolis locations include: The Sanctuary CDC/Pillsbury United Communities event; Phillips West Neighborhood's 17th Annual 27th Street Block Party; Little Earth of United Tribes and the Woman's Club. In the suburbs: Night to Unite events with the Plymouth police and fire and departments, and at Rosland Park in Edina.

STAFF REPORT