Why we need guns

I hope that the Robert B. Smith opinion feature on firearms measures (“Rationality should guide firearms measures,” April 13, 2018) gets the attention it deserves. A very well-written and rational (as titled) piece on the current political commentary regarding guns.

His rationalization reflects my own beliefs. Anyone living in the city might expect a fairly quick response to an emergency, maybe under 10 minutes or so. Rural residents like me, in southern Stevens County (Tum Tum, Suncrest), may or may not have a sheriff’s deputy to respond at any given time due to the size of the area they cover. It could be 20 to 45 minutes. Even in the city, 10 minutes is possibly not enough time to help you with whatever, but 45 minutes is a lot. I had better be able to do whatever I can to help my own self, by the best means available.

In today’s world, “gun free zones” are ridiculous. A trained resource officer is best, a trained and armed teacher would be next best. I’ve seen the irrational letters here arguing against that, but those writers miss the “trained” part and lack the understanding of what being “trained” entails. Any local gun store can direct you to classes for proper training, as can your local police department, as can the NRA (yes, they are on your side).

Mr. Smith has written an excellent and clearly informed article. I urge everyone to read it and give serious thought to these issues. Don’t just be a believer of the media hype.

John Geurin

Nine Mile Falls