Patch Talker: Readers Respond to Issue of Armed Guards in Schools, Gun Control

Following another school shooting, this time in Atlanta on Jan. 31, Patch asked readers if they believed President Obama's gun control proposals will help prevent school shootings.

We also asked readers what they feel needs to be done to stop school shootings, such as bringing in armed guards.

Here are some of the responses we received. Some comments have been edited for length, grammar and clarity:

"What will stop the school shootings? 1. Pass a law forcing all gun owners to buy a heavy duty gun box and keep all guns locked up 24-7. Keep a hand gun out for home security, but if you go out lock up the all the guns. 2. Armed guards in all schools. 3. Metal detectors. 4. Bullet proof all school first floor windows and doors. Keep all school doors locked up. 5. Cameras all around the schools. That is going to cost some money but it will keep kids safe 99%," posted Jose.

"I don't believe mandating armed guards is the answer. There are 2 better solutions: 1. Allow any teacher or staff member that wants to have conceal carry to do so once trained. You could even only allow biometric triggers for those staff members. 2. Place weapons in safes in strategic locations around the school. Train the staff on their usage," posted Lennie Jarratt.

"Not enough money for supplies or up-to-date materials, but when it comes to guns and the gun culture, no cost is too much," posted Sully.

"Schools are responding with metal detectors and armed guards as a solution. This will only make matters worse. Shooting a gun on a range is one thing but shooting in a combat situation is something completely different. By arming our school personnel with guns we will be facing worse episodes of violence and shooting, and even if you remove all the guns people who want to create an act of violence will always find a way," posted Robert Howard.

Got an opinion? Share it in the comments.

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