JUST THE FACTS

December 13, 2024 Volume 15 Issue 50

LIGHTED PARADE FUN!

OPD led the lighted holiday parade last Friday in downtown Owatonna. What a great night had by all with decent weather and so many were in attendance enjoying the festivities. Such a fun event.

In Custody Arrests this week

Willie Bradford Jr. was formally charged with DWI refusal (GM) and 2nd degree DWI (GM)

AROUND THE OFFICE

Recently we sent three officers and one of our administrative assistants to a peer support training. This program trains these employees to be able to assist staff around the office if they deal with a difficult incident at work or in their personal lives.

This training also aligns with our wellness initiatives looking at employee physical and mental wellbeing. Since adopting many new wellness initiatives, we have seen positive impacts on our staff and are excited to keep investing in our biggest assets within the organization.

Keep Everyone Safe by Reporting Dangerous Driving

Dangerous driving behaviors like excessive speeding, reckless swerving or distracted driving can put people on and off the roads at risk. If you see dangerous driving or dangerous situations that require immediate attention, report it to law enforcement. Remember to prioritize safety by pulling over to a safe location before calling 911, unless immediate danger requires urgent action.

When reporting dangerous driving behavior, be prepared to provide the following information.

Location of the incident.
Behavior that was witnessed.
Vehicle description.
Vehicle license plate number.
You can also report unsafe driving online.

Reporting poor driving behavior is a simple yet powerful way to make our roads safer for all. If we work as a team and look out for one another, we can create a culture of safety and responsibility.

HEADLIGHTS ON

The law is simple… If you're behind the wheel and there’s precipitation, your vehicle’s headlights, taillights, and marker lights need to be turned on. Even if it's just a light flurry. Drivers might assume the sensors will activate all of the vehicle’s lights in reduced visibilities, but that is not always the case. They do not always turn on automatically, especially during the day. That’s why it’s important to consult your owner’s manual and learn how to turn your lights on manually. Seeing and being seen can help reduce your chances of being involved in a crash, so be sure to double check that your vehicle's headlights, taillights, and marker lights are shining before heading out on the road. Ultimately, it’s one more way to drive smart and keep yourself and others safe on Minnesota roads.