July 1, 2024
As you've probably noticed, this isn't the way you're normally used to receiving our Neighborhood Watch Newsletter.
We've updated the newsletter's platform and design to provide readers with a new experience while still continuing to help you stayed informed about what's happening in our community.
 The Medford Police Department recently had its newest K9 member hit the street! K9 Koda is a two-and-a-half-year-old Belgium Malinois who trains with his handler, Officer McFetridge (Fun fact: this is the fifth K9 that Officer McFetridge has handled).
The MPD K9 Team just finished six weeks of intensive training and passed the Oregon Police Canine Association certification standards. MPD's K9 Teams must pass those standards on a yearly basis. We currently have two drug dogs and two patrol dogs, and K9 Koda is one of the patrol dogs.
Each K9 here at MPD is an important member of our team and the high level of professionalism our teams demonstrate help us accomplish our goals and provide excellent service to this community. We are excited to see what Officer McFetridge and K9 Koda accomplish in the future!
- Deputy Chief D.J. Graham
 The City of Medford encourages all residents to exercise caution and take proper safety measures if they choose to use fireworks.
Conditions are dry and the use of fireworks near dry vegetation could cause a wildfire.
Please Note: Legal consumer fireworks can only be used in Medford legal areas from July 1 -6; the penalty of using illegal fireworks is $2,500. It is illegal within the city limits to discharge any fireworks in Wildland Hazard Areas (hills east of Foothill Rd. and North Phoenix Rd.), the Bear Creek Greenway, any City park, or any public school.
 Whether you're heading out of state or out of town, MPD suggests that you consider a few key tips before leaving your home unoccupied, for an extended period of time:
- Leave a house key with a trusted neighbor or friend.
- Make your home appear that it is occupied by placing one or two lights on timers.
- Consider leaving a radio or TV on.
- Remember to place dowel rods in sliding windows and sliding doors.
- If you have an automatic garage door, unplug it.
- Share with someone where you'll be going, the route you are traveling and expected departure/arrival/return times.
 While most people are honest, stuff happens. After workers leave your home, check all entrances (doors, windows, etc.).
Make sure they didn’t leave something unlocked to re-enter your home at a later time. Never leave garage door openers or spare keys in spots where they might easily be found.
 If you have children, there are a couple of Medford Municipal Codes that MPD encourages you to be familiar with: (MMC) 5.341 and (MMC) 5.342. They deal with curfew and are designed to help keep kids safe all year long.
The key parts of these codes are that minors (less than 18 years of age) cannot generally be out in Medford during the hours of 12:00 a.m. to 4:00 a.m., unless accompanied by a parent, guardian or an adult (who is authorized by the parent or guardian).
Parents are responsible for not allowing their underaged children to be out during these hours. There are other provisions and circumstances like work schedules and emancipation that provide exceptions within these ordinances.
Remember, this is the minimum curfew requirement for the city-imposed code. You can always set your own, earlier curfew for your kids.
The Medford Police Department will be helping residents stay cool by handing out free popsicles to kids and adults during their Popsicle Patrol.
Their next event will take place Saturday, July 13 from 12-2 PM at Hawthorne Park (501 E. Main St).
Adress: 219 S. Ivy St., Medford, OR, 97501
Phone: 541-774-2250
Website: medfordoregon.gov
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