With Memorial Day as the unofficial start of summer, Linn County Sheriff Bruce Riley would like to remind citizens to be safe. This long weekend is typically packed with celebratory events. Every festive event presents hazards that we should all be aware of, and “Safety First” should always be a priority regardless of the activity planned. To help you enjoy the holiday weekend and keep it safe, we have gathered these helpful safety tips.

 

Safety While Traveling

*Carry an emergency supply kit in your vehicle.

*Let someone know your destination, your route and when you expect to arrive.

*Know your route and check road conditions beforehand and throughout the day.

*Buckle up and observe speed limits.

*Avoid driving distractions such as eating, cell phone conversations and texting.

*Avoid the use of alcohol when you are going to be driving and use a designated driver.

 

Safety While Swimming & Boating.

*Check weather and water conditions beforehand and be aware of cold water temperatures.

*Always swim with a friend and stay in designated swimming areas.

*Provide constant supervision to children in or near the water.

*Wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket.

*Protect yourself from the sun by applying a waterproof sunblock.

 

Safety While Camping

*Pack plenty of food, water, clothing and blankets.

*Keep a safe distance from wild animals.

*Practice good campfire safety and never leave a fire unattended.

*Check for fire restrictions in your camping area at: Http://firerestrictions.us/or/oregon/

*Inform others where you will be camping and when you plan to return.

 

Linn County Sheriff Bruce Riley would like to remind citizens of extra patrols scheduled for the summer.

For your added safety, there will also be saturation patrols in the Quartzville area during peak usage periods over the Memorial Day weekend. These positions are funded in partnership with Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management and the Oregon State Marine Board.

 

On Friday May 25, 2018, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MAAD) is partnering with our office, Oregon State Police and other local agencies, to hold a Memorial Day holiday high visibility saturation patrol. This event is dedicated to Charlotte Fay Boyce, who tragically lost her life when she was hit by a drug impaired driver. Her brother, Mr. Don Boyce, will be in attendance at a dedication ceremony to kick off the saturation patrols on May 25, 2018, at 6:00pm., at the Albany Police Department community/training room.

 

MADD wants you to think before you get behind the wheel this Memorial Day weekend. For those personally impacted by drunk driving, drugged driving, and underage drinking consequences, MADD victim Services are available at no charge. MADD serves one person free of cost every fifteen minutes through local victim advocates and MADD’s 24-hour Victim Help Line at 1-877-MADD-HELP.

 

Have a safe and fun Memorial Day weekend!