As the Memorial Day weekend begins, join me to honor and pay respect to the brave men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving our country. This holiday weekend ushers in the unofficial beginning of summer, and I want to ensure everyone is safe.
Prevent a tragedy
Please remember to drive sober, make plans to arrive home safely. Several speed radars have been placed throughout the county along with enhanced traffic enforcement to remind residents to slow down. More information below on our social media section.
Keeping our community safe is our priority. Make sure everyone in the car is buckled up and your children are in their car seats. SAFE KIDS Greater Houston is offering a virtual car seat check. Call 832-822-2277 for more information.
Many families will be spending time around swimming pools, please remember to practice proper water safety, as well as social distancing to try to mitigate the virus’ spread. Before heading out read the following safety tips from Safe Kids Worldwide, and assist in doing your part to prevent a tragedy.
- Water watcher: This person should be someone who will pay attention to children who are playing in the water.
- Life jackets: Be sure that the life jackets fit properly and are fastened securely.
- Swimming lessons: Although knowing how to swim can’t prevent drowning 100 percent, it’s an important skill for both children and adults.
- Learn CPR: Red Cross offers an online CPR certification, for more information please click here.
Drowning is the leading cause of accidental death in children ages 1-4. Avoid a tragedy by always keeping your eyes on your little ones.
Stay vigilant
Getting past this virus is a shared responsibility, and I want to thank our residents for doing their part. It’s important to stay vigilant and protect yourself from the virus. Keep following the Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations, wear a cloth face-covering in public spaces, keep at least 6 feet of physical distance, and wash your hands frequently. The CDC also recommends some helpful tips for running essential errands, such as grocery shopping, going to the pharmacy, and banking. Click here for more information.
As more of our county reopens, testing has become an important tool to identify infection. The Harris County Public Health encourages residents to take advantage of the free testing. Click here to schedule a test or call 832-927-7575.
You are not alone
This week, Deputy Thompson, showcased what our third core value truly means — protect our residents with honor and courage. He responded to a weapons disturbance on east Harris County, upon arrival a man on a roof threatened to kill himself and shoot Deputy Thompson. He continued talking to him and eventually persuaded him to do otherwise. Deputy Thompson, thank you for your heroism!
Unfortunately we see individuals who have lost all hope. Please know that you have options and that my team and I are here to help. If you are in Harris County and need help please call 713-221-6000 or 911. Remember you are not alone.
I wish everyone a safe and fun Memorial Day weekend. God bless you, and God bless the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.