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Cell phone emergency message test on October 4

A Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) test will take place at 2:20 p.m. on Wednesday, October 4.

FEMA, in coordination with the FCC, will conduct a nationwide test of both Wireless Emergency Alerts and the Emergency Alert System. The WEA test alert will be sent to mobile phones nationwide.

Most, but not all, people will receive the WEA test message on their mobile phones. In order to receive the test message:

You must have a WEA-compatible mobile device. (Some older mobile phones do not receive WEA alerts.)

Your device must be turned on.

Your device must not be on "airplane mode."

Enhancements made to Safer Ohio School Tip Line

Tip line newly staffed by trained crisis response professionals

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has announced several enhancements to the state's free Safer Ohio School Tip Line (1-844-SAFEROH) that will make it easier for Ohioans to report school safety concerns. 

In addition to calling and texting the tip line, Ohioans anywhere in the state can now report school safety information through a new smartphone app and online web form.

"Not everyone wants to make a phone call or send a text--some are more likely to report concerns by sending a message through an app or website," said Governor DeWine. "We're making these upgrades so that it's as simple as possible for all Ohioans to quickly and anonymously report any potential school safety threats in a manner that makes them comfortable."

The new Safer Ohio School Tip Line smartphone app, available both on iOS and Android devices, and the online web form include pre-populated prompts to help users quickly upload information.

ODOT seeks public comment on Allen County projects

Harrod and Lafayette projects

The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) District 1, in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and Executive Order 11988, is seeking public comments regarding the following proposed projects in Allen County.

Red Cross has blood and platelet shortage

The American Red Cross continues to experience a national blood and platelet shortage and asks the public to book a time to give as soon as possible. Donors of all blood types are urgently needed, especially type O blood donors and those giving platelets. The Red Cross offers three ways to make a donation appointment that can help save lives:

  • Download the Red Cross Blood Donor App
  • Visit RedCrossBlood.org
  • Call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767)

LOCAL BLOOD DRIVES

Thursday, September 28, 2023
Ohio Northern University McIntosh Center, Ada
10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

Thursday, October 5, 2023
St. Mary's Catholic Church
160 North Spring Street, Bluffton
11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

ODW field reports for Sept. 19

Ohio Division of Wildlife reports

Northwest Ohio – Wildlife District Two 
State Wildlife Investigators Brian Bury and Travis Abele observed two men trolling with eight rods from a boat on Lake Erie. In Ohio, anglers are permitted to use up to three rods per person. The boat’s captain initially misled the officers into believing a third angler was asleep in the boat, but Investigator Bury discovered there was not a third person, and the anglers were using too many rods. Each angler was issued a summons for fishing with more than three rods. Both men were found guilty in Ottawa County Municipal Court and paid $145 in fines and court costs. 

Homecoming season increases law enforcement presence on roads

Homecoming season is a cherished tradition bringing together high school students, families and alumni to celebrate school spirit and unity. The Lima-Allen County Safe Community Coalition reminds citizens that while these festivities are eagerly anticipated, they also come with concerns about driving safety, particularly in the context of post-game and dance celebrations and gatherings, much of it being done by youthful drivers.

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