MOUNT VERON — Fireworks safety is uppermost in Fire Chief Chad Christopher’s mind as residents celebrate Independence Day.
“We need to make sure we leave the fireworks to adults, and you need to know your surroundings,” he said.
He also cautioned about seemingly innocent fireworks such as sparklers.
“Sparklers burn very, very hot. A lot of burns happen because of sparklers,” he said.
“And we have to remember to pick up our trash with fireworks, including the metal strands left from sparklers.”
Ohio law allows residents to discharge fireworks on specific days and times. Click here to read more about fireworks safety and regulations.
Christopher also reminded residents to practice safety with open burning and around water.
Open burning guidelines include using clean firewood, containing the campfire in a fire ring, and being considerate of neighbors. If there’s excessive smoke, put out the fire.
Water safety includes wearing a safety vest and putting your phone in a waterproof container so it is available if needed.
Additional notes:
•June’s run volume was 500, bringing the year-to-date total to 3,014.
•The department’s fan drive is ongoing. Interchurch Social Services distributed the first batch, and more are needed. Residents can drop off the fans at the fire station at 200 W. Gambier.
•The department hired Mount Vernon native Joel Hubbard as a part-time firefighter. Two staff members will finish medic school in the next few weeks; if they pass the state exam, they will become paramedics.
•A firefighter/paramedic exam is scheduled for Monday, July 15, at 5:30. Click here for more details.
•Upcoming department activities include July 4, First Friday, Front Porch Concert Series, and the Knox County Fair.
Mount Vernon Police Department
Police Chief Robert Morgan highlighted a June 23 traffic stop that became a major drug bust, assisted by the police K-9 Boss.
“It was outstanding police work,” Morgan said. “We recovered over three-quarters of a pound of meth along with drug paraphernalia and cash.
“It might not sound like a lot, but that’s a ton for our area.”
The meth had a street value of $11,000. A Knox County Grand Jury indicted the two offenders on Monday for first-degree aggravated drug trafficking.
Morgan said the MVPD awaits results to see how pure the meth is.
“It was good police work. The officer was very observant and turned a minor traffic stop into a major drug bust,” he said.
Mayor Matt Starr noted the incident highlights the extensive training officers undergo.
The MVPD is also gearing up for the Fourth of July celebration. Morgan also noted fireworks safety and said the city has a good traffic plan, but urged residents to allow extra time getting to the festivities.
Starr said the best option is to park on the north side of the river and walk to Ariel-Foundation Park. Parking at the Schnormeier Event Center is restricted to handicapped only.
Other notes:
•MVPD activities include dodgeball and First Friday with PAK United.
•The department received the second half of its $35,000 VAWA grant (Violence Against Women Act). The grant funds the domestic violence liaison position.
•A $17,500 JAG (Justice Assistance Grant) grant will fund the department’s Flock cameras.
•The department is accepting lateral transfers and will also hold an entry-level exam on Monday, July 8, at 5:30 p.m. Click here for more details.
