DECATUR - Using gun locks saves lives, state and local officials stressed Tuesday during a news conference at the Decatur Airport to promote Project ChildSafe.

"Our philosophy is from the Bible: If you save one life, you can save the whole world," said Lt. Gov. Pat Quinn, who is supporting the initiative to distribute free gun locks through police departments and sheriffs' offices statewide. He flew to Rockford, Moline, Peoria and Decatur on Tuesday to promote the program.

Quinn said supporters of the initiative are reaching out to gun owners who have a right to keep and bear arms but have a responsibility to do so safely.

The concept of using a gun lock is no different that taking an airline flight that takes off and lands safely, said Decatur Police Chief Mark Barthelemy in stating his support for the program.

Illinois State Police Capt. John Strohl said, as a police officer, he has seen tragedy firsthand from firearms.

"Take time and use gun locks when you can," Strohl said. "It's as simple as a seat belt. Just click it."

Police departments in Macon County have the free locks as does the county sheriff's office.

A traveling exhibit for Project ChildSafe was at the Wal-Mart on Decatur's east side on Tuesday. Project ChildSafe employee Clyde Still said he gave away about 300 locks in three hours.

"There were a lot of middle aged and older people who said they needed a lock for their children or grandchildren," Still said. "One person told me he had a son who kept a gun under his bed and needed a lock for it."

Steve Alger, Project ChildSafe national director of government relations, said the key to accident prevention is education.

"Our message is simple," Alger said. "We're asking firearms owners to keep their firearms secure. Especially, we want them to keep them out of the hands of children."

Shari LeGate, a champion shooter who serves as Project ChildSafe's national spokeswoman, said there are about 240 million firearms nationwide with about 40 million people being recreational shooters.

A gun can be made safe from accidental firing in about 10 seconds using a lock, LeGate said.

Holding up a gun lock, LeGate said, "When you come to get this you aren't going to be asked any questions. It's a $10 value and it's absolutely free."

Ron Ingram can be reached at ringram@;herald-review.com or 421-7973.