Police Chief's Corner - Newsletter July 2019
Independence Day - Fireworks Safety
- Never let children handle fireworks, even just sparklers. Sparklers burn hot enough to melt some metals—imagine what they could do to a kid's hands. Keep a close eye on children at any events where people are lighting fireworks.
- Don't buy fireworks packaged in brown paper. These are usually meant to be handled by trained professionals.
- Never re-light a "dud" firework. Wait at least 20 minutes before handling it, then soak it in a bucket of water. Keep buckets of water or a hose nearby at all times.
- Avoid alcohol while handling fireworks. It's just an accident waiting to happen, so save the booze for afterward.
- Fully read the caution labels and instructions for every firework you buy. It should go without saying, but here's a friendly reminder.
- Wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks. Bottle rockets are notorious for shooting into people's eyes, so keep them covered whenever possible.
- Light fireworks in an open, clear area away from cars and buildings. Try to minimize contact with things that could catch fire.
- Keep pets inside. You may want your pup to join in on the fun, but most animals become extremely frightened by the loud noises and burning smells of fireworks and are likely to run away if they're not kept safely inside.
- Stay far away from M-class fireworks, like M-80s or M-100s. These illegal explosives are extremely unpredictable and dangerous, and you should report them to the fire or police department or Sheriff's Office.
- When you're done, douse all firework devices with water. You don't want a trash fire on your hands.
- If you experience a large burn or any injury to the eyes from fireworks, seek medical attention immediately.
The "Cookie Citation" is BACK!
Effective: July 1st thru August 9, 2019
The Bunnell Police Department has teamed up with Luke, Tim, and the staff at Sarafina's, to seek out all good kids in our neighborhoods. Our Officers will issue a Cookie/Cannoli Citation good for one free cookie/cannoli to all kids observed doing the right thing. The "Recipe for a Citation" is detailed on the citation:
- Be Respectful
- Be Honest
- Be Responsible
- Be Grateful
- Be Kind
This program gets the Officers out of their vehicles and encourages the following:
- Promotes a positive one-on-one experience with a police officer.
- The kids see officers as friends and mentors.
- Help build bridges of trust, understanding and civic responsibility.
- And is an investment in our community.
Our Police Department advocates, "Building community relationships through integrity, trust and communication and the Cookie Citation initiative will help build relationships in a positive setting."
Police Chief Tom Foster
Summer Time Safety Tips
As summertime reaches its peak so does household property crime. The Bunnell Police Department and the National Crime Prevention Council (NCPC) are here to provide you and your loved ones with important safety tips to make your summer safe and enjoyable.
Home Safety Tips:
- Be aware of what’s happening in the neighborhood.
- Lock your doors, including the garage door. Unlocked doors are open invitations to intruders.
- Ask a trusted family member, friend, or neighbor to keep a watchful eye on your home or have your mail held at the local post office until your return.
- Put lights on timers to give the impression that someone is home.
- Don’t post on social media that you are leaving town, and wait post photos after you return from your trip.
Vacation Tips:
- Lock your room and remember not to give out your room number or invite strangers into your hotel room.
- Be friendly but be vigilant. Watch for and report any suspicious behavior.
- Plan your route – stay within well-traveled routes and walk in groups. There’s safety in numbers.
- Keep your belongings secure - Purses should be securely closed, backpacks are zipped, and wallets are kept in your front pocket. When dining in restaurants do not hang your purse or backpack on the back of your chair.
These prevention tips are simple steps to avoiding summertime crime. If you would like more information, please visit www.ncpc.org.
Have a safe summer; it is our honor to protect and to serve you.