Grey County OPP is reminding owners of firearms to make sure they are properly registered and stored according to the Firearms Act and the Criminal Code of Canada.

OPP Media Relations officer Steve Starr says the Canada Firearms Centre has served notice that the amnesty period for unregistered firearms is expiring on May 16.

To learn details about the amnesty, firearms licencing and the registration of firearms, refer to the website or direct inquiries to the toll free number, 1-800-731-4000. A link to the website is provided with this article.

Starr explained that it is against the law to knowingly or unknowingly possess a firearm unless you are the holder of a licence that permits you to have one and you have obtained a registration certificate for each firearm you possess.

It is also an offence under the Criminal Code to improperly store a firearm. The firearm must be rendered safe while stored. This is attained by using a secure locking device, removing the bolt or bolt carrier or locking it in a sturdy container or room that can't be easily broken into.

In addition, it must be in a place where ammunition for the firearm is not easy to obtain. There are exceptions and the requirements for restricted or prohibited firearms are more stringent. In all cases firearms are stored in an unloaded state.

"The OPP understand that the vast majority of firearms owners comply with the law and practices associated with responsible firearm ownership and usage," he said "We want to remind people with firearms to ensure they are complying with the law."