The shooting during a town hall-style event Saturday in Tucson, Ariz., that left six people dead and 14 wounded — including critically injured U.S. Rep. Gabrille Giffords — immediately stirred a debate about the safety of meetings held in the public venue.

Local legislators are assuring their constituents they will remain accessible.

Dowagiac’s state Rep. Sharon Tyler, R-Niles, said Monday that part of her job is to keep on her toes about the issue of security.

“You take risks in everything in life,” she said. “You’re always cautious; you always watch the crowds. When you do receive a letter, you take it to security. Those things come through the office”

However, she pointed out, her focus is on the tragedy in Arizona.

“Right now my first thoughts are with my families and my victims,” Tyler said. “That’s No. 1 in my thoughts.”

Tyler said the Capitol in Lansing is guarded by security, which conducts I.D. checks, but in the gallery, for instance, there are no metal detectors.

“It’s not something that you can fear,” the second-term representative said. “It’s an honor to serve the people, and you want to be there.

“It will not stop me from having office hours,” said Tyler, who conducts regular coffee meetings at public places in her district.

She suggested that those people concerned about attending scheduled visits may call to discuss issues.