The amnesty, which runs from July 1 to September 30, allows people to hand in, register or sell unregistered firearms or firearm-related items without penalty or fear of prosecution.

About 40 weapons including rifles, revolvers, shotguns and pistols have been handed in to Central Hunter Police during the amnesty period.

Central Hunter crime prevention officer Senior Constable Kel Boak said police were pleased with the response to the amnesty so far.

He said the program not only allowed people to dispose of unwanted weapons but also helped remove guns from the streets.

“We are especially pleased to be removing pistols from society,” he said.

“They can be easily concealed and used for crimes.

Senior Constable Boak said residents in illegal possession of guns had the option to register them rather than get rid of them.

He said registered guns had certain requirements in terms of the way they were stored, which was checked regularly.

“It ensures police know where they are,” he said.

Senior Constable Boak said the danger of unregistered and unlicensed firearms was they were often not secured safely.

“In a wardrobe or under the bed is not a safe way because it’s allowing access to children and people who are not trained with firearms,” he said.

Senior Constable Boak said the community had made a great start with the amnesty and urged people to continue the process.

“We are certainly encouraging more firearms to be brought in,” he said.

“It’s a great opportunity to dispose of unwanted firearms without any legal repercussions.”

Anyone caught with an unregistered firearm outside of the amnesty period could face fines of up to $280,000, 14 years in jail, and a criminal record.

Firearms and firearm-related items can be surrendered directly at Maitland Police Station.