Lake Havasu City Fire and Police Departments Score Major Highway Safety Grant

The Lake Havasu City fire and police departments have secured funding from the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety to enhance local road safety. This grant, facilitated by the city’s grants division, aims to address issues such as speeding, reckless driving, and impaired driving.

Specifically, the fire department will receive $18,815 to acquire a battery-powered extrication tool. These tools are crucial for first responders, enabling them to free individuals trapped in vehicles after accidents.

Fire Chief Pete Pilafas expressed gratitude for the funding, stating, “These funds are crucial in our mission to provide the highest level of service possible. The new equipment will make a tangible difference in our response efforts, ultimately saving lives and property.”

Meanwhile, the police department has been awarded two grants totaling $43,319. This marks the second consecutive year for the police department to receive financial assistance. Last year, they acquired $30,000 to support various safety initiatives.

Sgt. Kyle Ridgway indicated that the funds will focus on enhancing traffic enforcement operations. The bulk of the funding, $40,292, will be allocated to the Selective Traffic Enforcement Program Grant, which facilitates overtime for officers to focus on speeding enforcement using radar devices.

The additional $3,072 will fund officer training in accident investigations and provide necessary equipment. City officials aim to reduce speed-related accidents and enhance overall road safety.

Recent data highlights the ongoing challenges; in 2023, there were 10,980 traffic stops, leading to 5,075 citations and 332 DUI arrests. These numbers underscore the importance of the newly acquired resources and ongoing safety efforts.