Children and handguns oftentimes don't mix, and a national program is trying to make sure the two don't meet in tragedy.

Project ChildSafe, an extension of Project HomeSafe, is handing out about 2 million free gun locks to handgun owners, with more than 10,000 free firearm safety kits available for Mercer County residents.

The kits, which can be installed on autoloading pistols, revolvers, rifles and pump-action shotguns, include a cable-style gun lock and a safety brochure that explains proper use and safe storage.

Project ChildSafe is managed by the National Shooting Sports Foundation and was funded by a $50 million grant from the U.S. Department of Justice. In 2002, Project HomeSafe disbursed more than 2.4 million safety kits in 43 states.

Twelve county police agencies will be distributing locks.

Sharon police department has a supply of 1,400 locks they will be giving away from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday in council chambers and again Dec. 13 at the same time and place.

Beginning Dec. 16, the department will hand them out from 5-10 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.