Safe Communities of Wright County

TSA: "What's in the bag?"
Me: "A car seat."
TSA: "Perfect."
Me: "And some ranch."
TSA: "Now hold on a second..."

Summer is in full swing, and that means roadside mowing operations are highly active across state, county, township, and city roadways. While these crews do a fantastic job of keeping sightlines clear and managing weeds, their work brings heavy machinery very close to live traffic. Operating a large roadside mower can be incredibly challenging, so operators rely on us to stay alert and give them plenty of space.

Understand the operator's view—mower operators must constantly divide their attention between:
- Navigating steep ditches, uneven ground, and hidden drop-offs.
- Watching for and avoiding road signs, culverts, utility poles, and large rocks.
- Keeping an eye on fast-moving vehicles passing just feet away.

Drive safely around roadside mowers
- Slow down and stay alert: As you approach a mowing zone, reduce your speed. Operators frequently back up, turn around or navigate around unexpected obstacles.
- Keep your distance: Avoid tailgating mowing equipment. Give them plenty of buffer space so you have time to react if they make a sudden maneuver.
- Watch for flying debris: Roadside mowers can kick up rocks, sticks, or trash. Staying back helps protect your vehicle and windshield from stray debris.
- Ditch the distractions: Put down the phone. A split-second distraction is all it takes to miss a slow-moving tractor turning near the roadway.
- Respect warning signs and lights: Look out for amber flashing lights, "Mowing Ahead" signs, or shadow vehicles — they’re there to give you an early heads-up.

Whether you are commuting to work, traveling between sites, or heading out for the weekend, be sure to give these operators the room they need to do their jobs safely. Together, we can drive Minnesota toward zero deaths.

“ASK A TROOPER” by Sgt. Jesse Grabow of the Minnesota State Patrol

Question: I have a new driver in my house. What advice should I give them when encountering a road rage type situation?

Answer: Stay safe if you encounter an aggressive driver. You can only control what you do and how you respond.
• Get out of their way.
• Stay calm – safely reaching your destination is your goal.
• Do not challenge them.
• Avoid eye contact.
• Ignore their gestures and don't return them.
• Report aggressive driving by providing vehicle description, license plate number and location.

Applies to Minnesota this week as well!

It's the first day of summer, Virginia!

Here's your reminder as the weather continues to heat up.

Long days and warm weather don’t mean it’s time to hit the gas. Take it easy on the accelerator and make it home safely this summer.

🕊️ Remembering Eric Okerblom

Eric was biking along a quiet country road when a driver struck and killed him. Eric was a National Merit Finalist, artist, musician, athlete, and UC Berkeley student who dreamed of finding a cure for cancer.

His life was cut short by a moment of distraction. His story is a heartbreaking reminder that taking your eyes off the road for even a moment can change countless lives forever.

Every cyclist, pedestrian, and family deserves safer roads.

NDCF data tells us that 72% of car seats are used incorrectly. To be sure yours is being used correctly, find a checkup event near you. https://bit.ly/4uDizLE

It's time to refresh your emergency car kit! ⚠️

Swap out heavier items for thinner layers, replenish your first aid kit and stock up on fresh batteries and water.

Pro-Tip: Don’t leave plastic water bottles in a scorching trunk for months — swap them out regularly for fresh ones, or grab a few shelf-stable water pouches instead. ⤵️

Rear-Facing Car Seat Tips An instructional video demonstrating proper use of a rear-facing ca...