Let shoppers protect themselves

To the editor:As we enter this holiday season we hear of public-rampage shootings on nearly a daily basis. These terrible crimes cannot be predicted or stopped.

However, there are ways to slow down and deter criminal actions.

My wife and I have been paying more attention to the notices on doors of retailers. Most retailers prohibit concealed firearms.

What these signs really say is that criminals can come on in and prey on unarmed law-abiding citizens.

I do not want to spend time and money in a business that doesn't allow me to protect myself and my family. I would feel much safer shopping in a business with an armed law-abiding citizen standing nearby.

Think about it. Where would you rather be?

Hiding behind a counter scared to death waiting for you or your child to be hurt or killed?

Or beside that person who can stop this violent act before it goes any further?

People, especially retailers, please understand that all these notices are doing is stopping law-abiding citizens from protecting themselves and others.

You will never stop a criminal with a sign. Retailers, I ask you to please take down these notices and allow me the right to protect myself while on your premises, because you refuse to protect anyone by not allowing law-abiding citizens to carry concealed weapons.

Actually, they will do your security officer's job if you allow them to do so.

GARY FORD, Oak Ridge