When John Eubanks found out about the firearms safety training program being offered at Missouri Southern he knew it was for him.

Eubanks, a Joplin resident, has several firearms in his home. He’s a grandfather of four, and the children are constantly in his home. He said he’s taking the class to ensure their safety.

“I’m here for the safety,” Eubanks said. “I think it’s a good idea for anyone who owns guns.”

Eubanks attended the training program on Tuesday and Wednesday for two four-hour sessions. The program was full with 40 participants attending.

Faculty in Southern’s Criminal Justice Program have been preparing for a series of firearm safety training programs for a while. It was just a matter of when the state was going to pass House Bill 349.

“Once the bill passed, we knew there was going to be demand,” said Wayne Thomason, director of the law enforcement academy.

In order for Missourians to own a firearm, they must successfully complete an approved firearms safety course; be at least 23 years of age; be a U.S. citizen and either have lived in Missouri for six months or be stationed in Missouri with the Armed Forces; undergo state and federal criminal background checks, and pay $100 for a three-year permit.

Because of the high response from the community, the criminal justice department has eight courses.

“I’m excited to meet a lot of people in the community,” Thomason said.

Participants had to pay $95 for the training course.

They receive training in the areas of legal requirements, care and cleaning of firearms, handgun safety and legal issues. The law enforcement academy is also using its live-fire range and two computerized electronic firing ranges.

“The course is good for anyone who just wants to learn about safety,” said Dr. Jack Spurlin, vice president for lifelong learning.

Thomason said the program is not meant to be difficult. In the first program on Sept. 27, 39 of the 40 participants passed.

“It wasn’t designed to be difficult,” he said.

After a written examination, participants must shoot a target 15 out of 20 times.

Spurlin said he estimates that there will be a 95 to 100 percent passing rate.

Deb Packard, Joplin resident, is enrolled in the University’s criminal justice program.

“I have to take this class for my degree,” Packard said.

Packard said she isn’t sure whether or not she will apply for the permit to carry a firearm.

“It’s up in the air,” she said.

Participants who pass the initial program are eligible for an advanced training program which will be held Nov. 12.

Spurlin said the firearms safety program not only benefits the participants who take the course, but Southern as well.

“It benefits the entire University,” Spurlin said. “One of our goals is to serve the community.”