Overall the Eaton County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to 871 calls for service/events. Our higher call volumes occurred in the following areas: Traffic Stops-223, Suspicious Situations/Subject/Vehicle-81, Traffic Violations-35, Check Well Beings-27, Larcenies-26, Property Damage Crashes-25, Alarms-24, Assist Citizen/Motorist Assist-23, Traffic Hazards-19, Civil Complaints-18, Shoplifting Complaints-16, Personal Injury Crashes-14, Unwanted Subject-13, Argument or Verbal Altercation-12, Miscellaneous Animal-11, and Property Damage Hit and Run-10.
The Labor Day holiday weekend is just ahead and many of us will take to the highway for the “last” weekend of summer. Stay safe by following these tips:
Driving Safety:
- Be well rested and alert, use your seat belts, observe speed limits and follow the rules of the road.
- Don’t drink and drive. Have a designated driver available.
- Give your full attention to the road. Avoid distractions such as cell phones.
- Use caution in work zones. There are lots of construction projects underway on the highways.
- Don’t follow other vehicles too closely.
Heat Safety:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol.
- Avoid extreme temperature changes.
- Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays.
- Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day.
- Postpone outdoor games and activities.
Water Safety:
- If you plan to swim in the ocean, a lake or river, be aware that swimming in these environments is different than swimming in a pool.
- Swim only at a beach with a lifeguard, within the designated swimming area.
- Make sure you swim sober and that you always swim with a buddy.
- If you are caught in a rip current, try not to panic. Signal to those on shore that you need assistance. Swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current.
Outdoor Safety:
Being prepared is critical when you are out in remote areas with limited access to phone service, hospitals and emergency help. Before you head out, follow these steps:
- Make sure you have plenty of water.
- Share your travel plans and locations with a family member, neighbor or friend.
- Pack a First Aid Kit – make sure to include insect repellant, sunscreen and personal medications.
Yours in Public Safety
Sheriff Tom Reich