Kenora OPP issue warning about air guns and pellet guns

In the wake of recent calls to police involving air guns and pellet guns, Ontario Provincial Police in Kenora are asking people to "use common sense," when it comes to carrying one of these guns in a public place.

There are dangers associated with these types of weapons, police stated in a news release issued Friday.

Carrying them can pose a significant threat to public safety,as people perceive the guns to be firearms, and then call police.

"The most recent of these incidents have resulted in lockdowns in a number of schools in our community due to a possible threat of an armed subject in the area," the OPP stated.

An armed suspect report will result in a "calculated, measured," response with "significant resources," police said in the release, adding that the fear of an armed individual can cause fear and trauma for people in the area.

Police noted that, while pellet guns or air guns are legal, there are many Criminal Code charges that people can face when they are used in a manner that threatens public safety.

Those charges can include public mischief and carrying a concealed weapon.

"It is also important to be aware that people using any firearm even if it is not 'real' face the same charges under the Criminal Code as a person using a real firearm," the release stated.

Police are encouraging parents to speak with their children regarding the dangers associated with these types of items outside the family property.