Fog is a thin layer of cloud resting on the ground. It can reduce visibility to 1/4 mile or less, creating hazardous driving conditions. When conditions make fog likely, be prepared to cope at a moment's notice. It can be patchy, going from a light mist to a thick cover in an instant. Here are some tips for driving in foggy conditions:

DRIVE WITH LIGHTS ON low beam. High beams will only be reflected back off the fog and actually impair visibility even more. Your lights help other drivers see your vehicle, so be sure they all work. Keep your windshield and headlights clean, to reduce the glare and increase visibility.

SLOW DOWN and watch your speedometer before you enter a patch of fog. Be sure that you can stop within the distance that you can see. Fog creates a visual illusion of slow motion when you may actually be speeding. Speed is a major factor in fog-related crashes.

WATCH OUT for slow-moving and parked vehicles. Listen for traffic you cannot see. Open your window a little, to hear better.

REDUCE THE DISTRACTIONS in your vehicle. Turn off the radio and cell phone. Your full attention is required.

USE WIPERS AND DEFROSTERS liberally for maximum visibility. Sometimes it is difficult to determine if poor visibility is due to fog or moisture on the windshield.

BE PATIENT and avoid passing other vehicles.

SIGNAL TURNS well in advance and brake early as you approach a stop.

Summer fun has begun! School's out and summer curfew hours are now in effect. That means:

Parents and kids, please be aware that, even though it is summer and the curfew hours are later, curfew will continue to be strictly enforced.

As another reminder, when children are home by curfew, but still playing outside (basketball, frisbee, kites, ect.), please remind them to keep the noise level down for the benefit of the neighbors. Although it's fun to hear laughter and kids teasing each other, after midnight, it's not so fun if you're trying to sleep.

Curfew extensions for specific circumtances like work schedules or special community events are allowed by ordinance. Employers of minors or community event sponsors should contact the Director of Public Safety at (907) 546-3132 for more information.

The Police Department has recently received several reports of vandalism (broken windows by pellet guns), breaking and entering, and property damage while property owners were away from their homes.

These crimes are particularly hurtful in a community in which the majority of the citizens are honest, hard working, trusting individuals who care for each other, and their community.

Intentionally damaging someone else's property is a crime, and one in which we will certainly prosecute, if the offender is apprehended. We appreciate your help in reporting any suspicious or unusual activity you may observe in your respective neighborhoods. Please contact Public Safety at (907) 546-3130.

Gerald Meece, Chief SPDPS