Public Safety

Public Safety is a top priority for local and state government agencies, encompassing the protection of citizens through law enforcement, emergency response, and crime prevention strategies. Effective public safety measures are essential for maintaining order and ensuring the well-being of communities. This directory offers articles on public safety and related topics like Emergency Management, which focuses on preparing for and responding to natural disasters, public health crises, and other emergencies that impact community safety.

Herrin officials, firefighters and residents gathered for a ribbon-cutting and open house at Herrin’s modern fire station, which replaces a 50-year-old facility
San Bernardino County fire officials tested a lightweight, battery-powered aircraft that could speed up emergency response in remote areas at a lower cost than helicopters
“We are taking bold steps now to protect our people and our skies before tragedy strikes,” Gov. Jeff Landry said
Kansas City Fire Chief Donna Lake worked in the fire department for 30 years
A new facility would replace the John F. Cutter Jr. Fire Station, which has been in use since the early 1970s and has a decaying roof
Floyd County officials have examined ways to improve fire and EMS services over the years, a topic that has been a point of contention among commissioners and council members
Many swatting calls were reported across the state during 2022, including a false report of an active shooter that sent hundreds of students into lockdown
More than $200K of DOC officer Edward Johansen’s total pay was from overtime
Monroe County Sheriff Rick Ramsay criticized the federal response to the uptick in migrant arrivals, saying they were stretching local resources
“I would not be surprised if we increase the department by doubling it in the next five years. I think the data is telling us that we’re moving that quickly.”
Some of the cases encompassed face-to-face “person crimes,” where defendants were charged with beating, assaulting or threatening the safety of victims
Pittsburgh police will work with the ROOTS team to provide assistance for those experiencing substance abuse issues, mental illness and homelessness
President Biden signed the bill to fix prison cameras after rampant staff sexual abuse, inmate escapes and high-profile deaths
The video detective squads take advantage of the more than 56,000 public and private surveillance cameras in the city
Homicides dropped by 20%, while the number of shootings decreased from 672 in 2021 to around 440 this year
If the petitions are verified, the City Council at its next meeting would have to schedule a special election within 30 days for voters to decide whether to keep or repeal each ordinance
The grant, awarded by the Department of Justice’s Office of Community-Oriented Policing Services, will go toward funding contracted social workers and training members within the unit
The agency has spearheaded creative recruiting efforts, including virtual career fairs and advertising for candidates before movie screenings
Butte-Silver Bow Fire Chief Zach Osborne says the department is facing staffing challenges, deteriorating equipment and a fast-growing call volume