Special Event Safety Tips

Westerville is an event-loving community, with popular community gatherings such as Mount Carmel St. Ann’s 4th Fridays, Saturday Farmers Markets, Music and Arts Festival and more drawing thousands of people during the warmer seasons. With most residents carrying smartphones, it’s common to take photos of loved ones before, during and after big events. The Westerville Division of Police (WPD) is encouraging this practice in the name of safety.

WPD officers know that parents and guardians can easily become separated from their children or vulnerable individuals in big crowds. Sharing a current photo of your loved one as they appeared in at the time of separation is helpful to officers working to reunite families.

Upon arrival at an event, it’s recommended to take a quick full-length photo of each child or vulnerable individual in your group. In the unlikely event of separation, officers will have an accurate photo of who they are looking for.

Families should also designate and practice walking to an agreed-upon meeting location within the event space. Pick a safe location, such as a tent or booth staffed by City employees or event organizers. Take time to introduce your family to WPD officers and firefighters, they are there to help.

These simple steps can go a long way in ensuring your family has a safe, fun event experience this spring and summer. See the diagram for more information.

- Take a quick full-length photo of each child or vulnerable individual in your group

- Designate and practice walking to an agreed-upon meeting location within the event space. Pick a safe location, such as a tent or booth staffed by City employees or event organizers.

- Take time to introduce your family to WPD officers and firefighters, they are there to help.