 Public
Safety
Police Department
Public Service Announcements |
December 2011
Winter Holidays
With the holiday season comes holiday parties. If you are planning a night out have a designated driver or call a cab. Do not start the New Year off with court fines and fees. The officers of the Ketchikan Police Department will be out on the road doing extra DUI enforcement. Play it safe and smart. Do not drink and drive.
November 2009
Winter Driving
As we transition from fall to winter, it’s a good time to inspect your vehicle for damage or things in need of repair or replacement. Snow and/or studded tires should be installed. Jacks, chains, ice scrapers, de-icers, a good emergency kit, and a shovel, are all good things to be carried in your vehicle during the winter months.
Clean windows help you to see other motorists. Vehicles free of accumulated snow are also easier to see. Make time before you travel to clean your windows and remove snow from your car.
With bad weather, it is a good idea to give yourself plenty of time for commuting and traveling. You may be a good driver and have a good all weather vehicle, but there is always someone else out there who is less prepared.
Watch your speed. Even though a speed limit may allow you to travel fast, you never know when you may encounter icy road conditions. If you find yourself sliding, let off the gas and steer through the slide. If you slam on the brakes you will lose control of your vehicle. Please help us to help you prevent winter accidents by preparing and planning ahead of time.
This message has been bought to you by the officers of the Ketchikan Police Department.
October 2009
Accident Prevention
An accident can happen at any time. It is important that all drivers be aware of their surroundings and adhere to the rules of the road. It is equally important that we refrain from activities that draw our attention away from the road. Distracted driving is quickly becoming a major contributor to many of our fender benders. Texting, eating, and cell phone conversations are all distractions to be avoided when operating a motor vehicle.
In 2008, there were over 400 accidents investigated within the City of Ketchikan. Studies have shown that by simply turning your lights on, even in daylight, you become more visible and reduce your chances of being involved in an accident. Following traffic control devices such as stop, yield, one-way, and do not enter signs as well as other directions painted on the road surface will also help keep you safe. Remember to stop completely at a stop sign. Slow at the yellow caution light instead of speeding up. Use the center turn lane for turning only and not to merge into traffic no matter how convenient it is. Signal your intention to turn or change lanes. Always be on the lookout for pedestrians, and stop for them when they are in the crosswalks.
Plan to expect the unexpected and help us to work toward a safer community. This message has been bought to you by the officers of the Ketchikan Police Department.
September 2009
Back to School
Offices of the Ketchikan Police Department want to remind you that the new school year has begun. Be sure to watch out for school children who are walking to and from bus stops and schools. Children are easily distracted and don’t always take precautions when around streets and roads. Let’s do all we can to avoid an accident involving a child. Check your speed and be prepared for sudden stops.
This message has been brought to you by the officers of the Ketchikan Police Department, where we are dedicated to protecting our community.
August 2009
Pedestrians Crossing Streets
During this busy time of year here in Ketchikan, the amount of foot traffic in and around town has greatly increased. Tourists, cannery workers, and long-time residents often walk to their destination.
It is important to remember that when preparing to cross any street or highway that does not have a traffic control device: stop, look, and listen. Pedestrians do not always have the right of way. When not in a crosswalk, pedestrians have to yield the right of way to all vehicles on the roadway. You should always try to use a crosswalk whenever possible. When downtown, follow the direction of the crossing guards. They are there to help keep you safe.
Motorists should be extra vigilant as an unsuspecting pedestrian may walk out into your lane of travel at anytime. Follow the speed limits and drive carefully.
This message has been brought to you by the officers of the Ketchikan Police Department, where we are dedicated to protecting our community.
July 2009
Substance Abuse
Substance abuse is an issue that affects every community in the country. Ketchikan is no different. During difficult economic times, the incidents of drug abuse seem to increase. As illegal drug use and alcohol abuse increase, so do other crimes. Domestic violence, assaults, burglaries, theft, and suicide are just some of the indicators of a serious, community-wide, substance abuse problem.
There is hope. There are programs at both the local and state level that can help those who find themselves addicted to illegal substances. Families and friends can learn to recognize the warning signs and take action. If you know someone who is importing illegal drugs into Ketchikan or selling them on our streets, you can do something about it. A community problem requires a community solution. Please visit the below listed links for more information.
This message has been brought to you by the officers of the Ketchikan Police Department, where we are dedicated to protecting our community.
Alaska 2-1-1: http://www.alaska211.org
Alaska METH Education Project: http://www.muni.org/AlaskaMethEd/index.cfm
Crime Stoppers: http://www.egovlink.com/ketchikan/action.asp?actionid=10774
National Night Out: http://www.nationaltownwatch.org/nno/reg.html
June 2009
Bicycle Safety
Spring and better weather are here. As our streets become more crowded with vehicles and pedestrians, bicycle safety becomes more important to all of us. Before heading out, check your bike to make sure it is in proper working condition. Wear safety equipment like a helmet and protective/reflective clothing. Remember to check your children’s bicycles also. When riding, be prepared for the unexpected such as a pedestrian walking in front of you or someone exiting a parked car. Bicyclists are required to follow the same rules of the road as motorists. Also, please remember to properly secure your bicycle with a sturdy lock after parking it. An unattended bicycle is an easy target for a potential thief.
This message has been brought to you by the officers of the Ketchikan Police Department, who are dedicated to the safety of everyone in our community.
May 2009
Need Help?
The Police Department often acts as a non-emergency information clearinghouse for the citizens of Ketchikan. In an effort to better assist the community, we would like to introduce Alaska 2-1-1. If you have questions or need assistance with topics as wide ranging as domestic violence, crisis intervention, substance abuse, job services, senior care, shelter, and many more, simply dial 2-1-1. The call is free and the service is strictly confidential. Please feel free to contact the Police Department if you would like to learn more about this statewide service.
Edward Talik
Chief of Police
April 2009
Every year vehicles in Ketchikan become targets of vandalism, and theft. In the first 3 months of 2009 Ketchikan Police investigated over 75 reports involving vandalism and thefts from vehicles. Personal property stolen from vehicles was in excess of $12,000. While some of these cases result in arrests, often they do not. The common denominator for victims was leaving their car or truck unlocked. Please don't leave valuable items in plain site and lock your car doors.
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