Winnipeg Arts Council

Firearms Safety Awareness with Dave Brown

On Screen Manitoba — in partnership with IATSE 856 — is hosting Firearms Safety Awareness with Dave Brown on November 18 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Big Sky Studios (1771 Inkster Blvd, Winnipeg).

This in-person, cross-departmental seminar is designed to increase awareness about firearms and firearms safety on film sets. Using a visual and hands-on approach, the seminar will illustrate how firearms and replica firearms should be handled on film sets; demonstrate proper safe handling and checking procedures on firearms and replica firearms; explain local rules and procedures on permits and notifications; and answer questions about firearms safety in the entertainment industry.

Anyone who may be near or see firearms or replica firearms on film sets should know what to look for and know the right questions to ask. Specifically geared towards any department on set, it will also be educational and enlightening for locations workers, filmmakers, writers, actors, producers, directors or underwriters.

Presented by On Screen Manitoba in partnership with IATSE Local 856, it will also involve ACTRA and DGC members, filmmakers, producers and other interested parties. Following the presentation, coffee and light snacks will be served and participants will get an opportunity to practice safety-checking simulated firearms.

Dave Brown is a firearms safety specialist, professional instructor and member of IATSE Local 856 based in Winnipeg, Canada. As well as coordinating the safety and training cast members on hundreds of film and theatre productions, he has also worked with real-life professionals such as military, police and government agencies on weapons training and advanced handling skills.

Alison Everett learned her shooting skills while serving with the Royal Canadian Navy and honed those skills teaching advanced safety and handling to both professionals in government and police agencies and actors portraying characters in those same professions. She has worked across multiple departments in film production and has handled weapons on film sets, theatre stages and opera productions.