A week-long knife and dangerous weapons amnesty is being held.
Cumbria police is taking part in the national Operation Sceptre, which runs until November 23.
The operation provides the opportunity for people to dispose of knives anonymously and safely in amnesty bins at police stations.
In Cumbria, officers will also work with retailers to make sure they are aware of their responsibilities.
Chief Inspector Sam Turner said: “Sceptre is about giving people the opportunity to rid themselves of potentially dangers weapons and blades before they can be used to cause harm.
“This forms part of our work in preventing knife violence before it can take place.
“We will be working in the community – including with local businesses – to promote responsibility as the police alone cannot tackle knife violence.”
Someone in possession of a knife is not only increasing the risk of harm to themselves but could also face a fine of £5,000 and a four-year prison sentence.
In addition to the usual Operation Sceptre knife amnesty, in Cumbria there will be the opportunity for people to also come forward and dispose of other potentially dangerous weapons, including other types of bladed weapons such as hatchets or axes and even crossbows.
Ch Insp Turner said: “While incidents involving crossbows are rare, they do occur, including here in Cumbria.
“We want to take this opportunity to give people who are in possession of such a weapon, but who would like to dispose of it safely and legally, the opportunity to do so.
“There will be people who purchased such a weapon – perhaps some years ago – who now wish to give it up for their own safety and the safety of those around them.
“We encourage such people to come forward and hand your weapon in to your local police station.”
Anyone wishing to hand a weapon in should put them in a box or strong bag. Never attempt to take an uncovered knife or bladed article out in public. People are also advised to go directly to a designated station when handing in such items.
The stations to hand in knives or dangerous weapons are:
- Carlisle
- Barrow
- Kendal
- Whitehaven
- Workington
