Webster Way | October 2023

NATIONAL FIRE PREVENTION WEEK PG. 5

A LOOK INSIDE THE POLICE DEPARTMENT’S K9 DIVISION PG. 2

HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS PG. 4

OCTOBER IN WEBSTER

Fall Foliage, Festivals, and Frights Await!

UNLEASHING HEROES:

EXPLORING THE PAWS AND EFFECT OF THE WEBSTER

POLICE DEPARTMENT’S K9 DIVISION

MEET OFFICER EVERTS AND LEX

Narcotic and Apprehension K9 Officer Harley Everts takes on each day with her four-legged best friend, Lex, by her side. Lex, a 2-year-old Dutch German Shepherd, is trained in narcotics detection and apprehension.

Officer Everts’ primary responsibilities as a K9 handler are to assist patrol officers with narcotic-related calls and locate, as well, as apprehend suspects.

Officer Everts and Lex participated in an intense 11-week introductory handler course at Integrity K9 Texas, where they were trained and certified in narcotic detection, patrol work, and apprehension. During training, Officer Everts was honored with the Integrity Award, earned by an individual who demonstrates exceptional learning aptitude, strong teamwork skills, and an unwavering commitment to exceeding the most rigorous standards.

“A strong bond between the handler and the K9 is crucial and nurtured through constant interaction, positive reinforcement, and shared experiences,” says Officer Everts, “On duty, Lex and I continuously train mentally and physically. When off duty, I exercise by running in the

park, playing fetch, and showering Lex with lots of love and affection.”

TRAINING K9 LEX

Officer Everts and Lex train at least once a week to perfect their individual and team skills. One common misconception about K9s is that they are merely tools for police officers when, in fact, they are autonomous entities in their own right.

“A K9 is a trained professional who works closely with their handler to perform a wide range of tasks, from apprehending suspects to detecting drugs and explosives to finding missing persons and contributing to community relations for public safety,” says Officer Everts.

When it comes to working with Lex, there is no typical day. Officer Everts and Lex must always be prepared to respond to calls or assist with scenes at any hour, whether on duty or not.

“The biggest impact being a police officer has had on my life is being able to help people in the community by protecting and assisting them in their time of need,” says Officer Everts.

INTRODUCING OFFICER MENDOZA AND RAVI

Patrol Officer and K9 Handler Javier Mendoza and his companion, Ravi, work to provide a sense of protection and security to the community. Ravi, a two-year-old Dutch German Shepherd and Belgian Malinois mix, is trained and certified in explosive detection and apprehension scenarios.

Officer Mendoza’s responsibilities include training and maintaining Ravi as an exemplary detection and patrol dog for the City.

“Ravi and I work together by training a minimum of 16 hours per month in various training scenarios to ensure that he is always effective and efficient in the certifications that he has,” says Officer Mendoza, “Fortunately, we have various experienced K9 handlers in the area who assist us with training, ensuring that we are constantly progressing and improving as a team.”

A DAY IN THE LIFE

Officer Mendoza’s day-to-day is centered around Ravi, ensuring he has food, water, and the opportunity to stretch his legs throughout the day. Once Ravi spots

“I have always wanted to be a first responder. I truly enjoy helping others,” says Officer Everts, “When I became a police officer, my goal was to be a K9 handler, so being able to go to work with Lex is my favorite part of the job.”

“When we are on duty, and the opportunity arises, Ravi and I will find an empty field and play fetch, with occasional command reinforcement to make sure he stays sharp,” says Officer Mendoza, “ It’s nice and refreshing to see Ravi act like the goofball that he truly is.”

Officer Mendoza in his police uniform, he sprints to the front door. Ravi patiently waits for Mendoza to fasten his leash, then walks to the police car and enters the vehicle kennel, ready to commence the workday.

Significant cases for Officer Mendoza and Ravi are when they are called out to search for explosives at social events, schools, or other densely populated events.

“It’s best when we don’t find anything because that means the area is safe,” says Officer Mendoza.

Serving as part of the explosive detection team alongside Ravi adds to the greater public good. Helping the community and those in need is one of Officer Mendoza’s most cherished aspects of the job.

“It is a massive responsibility and opportunity to be entrusted with a K9,” says Officer Mendoza, “I was delighted to get the opportunity to provide an even greater public service for everyone, not just in Webster, but in the greater Clear Lake Area.”

Halloween Carnival

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2023

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HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS

Halloween is just around the corner! As we prepare for a night of costumes, candy, and eerie excitement, it’s essential to keep safety at the forefront of our celebrations. Whether you’re a parent accompanying little goblins on their trick-or-treat adventure or an adult heading to a festive party, these tips will help you enjoy a hauntingly good time while prioritizing safety. So, let’s dive into these tricks and treats to make this Halloween a spooktacular and safe experience for everyone!

CHOOSE SAFE COSTUMES

• Encourage costumes that are flame-resistant and don’t obstruct vision.

• Ensure costumes are the right size to prevent tripping.

FIRE SAFETY:

• Be cautious with candles and open flames in jack-o’-lanterns.

• Consider using battery-operated candles.

TEACH STRANGER DANGER

• Remind children not to enter homes or cars with strangers, even if they offer candy.

VISIBILITY IS KEY

• Add reflective tape to costumes or carry glow sticks or flashlights for better visibility, especially if trick-or-treating at night.

SAFE WALKING HABITS

• Remind children to look both ways before crossing streets.

• Stick to well-lit areas and use crosswalks when available.

• Avoid using electronic devices while walking.

CHECK TREATS

• Examine all treats before eating to ensure they are sealed and safe.

• Avoid homemade treats from strangers.

DRIVE SAFELY

• Drivers should be extra cautious on Halloween, especially in residential areas.

• Drive below the speed limit and watch for children crossing the streets.

NATIONAL FIRE PREVENTION WEEK: OCTOBER 8-14

MOVIE NIGHT AT THE FIRE STATION

Join us for a captivating movie night at the Webster Fire Department in honor of National Fire Prevention Week. We’re excited to screen “Fireheart” and provide all attendees with complimentary popcorn, candy, and refreshments.

Due to limited space, please ensure your reservation by the morning of October 6. RSVP at WChappell@ WebsterFD.com.

Bring your little ones and immerse yourself in a familyfriendly evening with our Fire Department. We are conveniently located at 18300 Hwy. 3. See you there!

*Remember to bring your lawn chairs for a comfortable screening experience.

FIRE SAFETY INSIGHTS WITH FIRE MARSHAL WARREN CHAPPELL

Q: Can you explain the significance of National Fire Prevention Week and its history?

A. Since 1922, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has sponsored the public observance of Fire Prevention Week. In 1925, President Calvin Coolidge proclaimed Fire Prevention Week a national observance, making it our country’s longest-running public health observance. During Fire Prevention Week, children, adults, and teachers learn how to stay safe in case of a fire. Firefighters provide lifesaving public education to significantly decrease casualties caused by fires.

Q. What is the primary role of a fire marshal, and how does it contribute to fire prevention and safety in the community?

A. A Fire Marshal is like a combination of a law enforcer and a fire safety expert. Their main job is investigating fires and arson cases. They also work as fire inspectors, ensuring that commercial buildings follow safety codes to protect people in emergencies. They regularly inspect these buildings to maintain safety standards. The Fire Marshal’s Office ensures that every commercial building is ready for emergencies. Their investigations help improve safety and inform builders, regulators, and occupants on how to prevent mishaps and stay safe. This role plays a crucial part in fire prevention and safety.

Q. How does the Fire Department educate the public about fire safety and prevention throughout the year?

A. The Webster Fire Department offers year-round fire prevention education. Children from daycares and schools visit the fire station for safety lessons, including age-appropriate videos, station and fire truck tours, and vital safety information. We also provide safety training to local businesses, addressing building-specific hazards, life safety features, and evacuation plans. During Fire Prevention Week in October, we host a family movie night at the station with free concessions and NFPA safety messages for the year.

Q. What are common misconceptions or myths about fire safety that you’d like to debunk?

A. Flames are not the main cause of casualties in fires, it’s the smoke. It displaces the oxygen we need to breathe and causes a loss of consciousness. A rapid rescue will need to occur to save life.

Q. How can businesses and schools actively participate in National Fire Prevention Week and promote fire safety among employees and students?

A. Visit www.nfpa.org. There are all kinds of free resources for parents, teachers, managers, instructors, and individuals seeking fire safety information. One can also contact the Webster Fire Department to schedule a site visit, station tour, or safety event by calling 281-316-3740 to speak to any Fire Marshal or the Administrative Assistant, Emily Lopez.

KEEP WEBSTER WATERS CLEAN

WHAT’S THE BUZZ IN WEBSTER?

CITY-WIDE CLEAN UP WEEK

OCTOBER 2-6, 2023

City Wide Clean-Up Week will begin Monday, October 2. The City will provide free residential curbside pick up of trash, furniture, appliances, tree limbs, etc. Pick-up will end on Friday, October 6.

OUR FUTURE, OURS TO PROTECT

Pet waste is one of the leading causes of bacterial pollution in our local streams and marine waters.

When it rains, bacteria from pet waste is carried from our backyards, parks, and trails to the nearest roadside ditch, storm drain, stream, and marine water.

Pet waste from domestic dogs contains nearly two times the fecal coliform bacteria that is found in human waste.

Pet waste harms the health of humans, pets, wildlife, and the environment.

This harmful bacteria ends up in the water, where we swim, fish, harvest shellfish, and play.

4 SIMPLE STEPS FOR CLEAN WATER

Bag it!

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Trash it!

4

Wash your hands!

Bagging

Discarded items may also be disposed of at the Webster Public Works Service Center, 855 Magnolia Ave., beginning Saturday, September 30, until Friday, October 7, from 8 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. Please bring proof of residency to utilize the dumpsters located at the Service Center.

NO CHEMICALS, PAINT CANS, VEHICLE PARTS, TIRES, OR OTHER HAZARDOUS MATERIALS WILL BE PICKED UP.

FROM ROOKIES TO HEROES

Three of our probationary firefighters recently reached a significant milestone as they successfully completed their training and received their badges during a heartfelt pinning ceremony.

CENTENARIAN CELEBRATIONS

Honoring Two Extraordinary Senior Residents

Last month, Mayor Donna Rogers visited Brookdale Clear Lake Senior Living Home to celebrate the incredible birthdays of two remarkable residents.

Senior resident Blynda Vidock celebrated an exceptional 102nd birthday, while Joe Sandel reached an impressive milestone of 101 years.

Mayor Rogers joined in on the celebration, offering warm congratulations to both Blynda and Joe in a heartfelt speech. As a token of the City’s appreciation, Mayor Rogers also presented them with flowers and plaques, each adorned with the key to the City and their names.

Pictured left to right: Christopher Massie, Chad Caramana, Tristan Couvillon

pet waste before you trash it protects sanitation workers from the harmful bacteria.

Mayor Rogers greets Blynda Vidock with a warm hug

CITY COUNCIL RECAP

August Recap

• City Council approved the first reading of an Ordinance to adopt and establish charges for providing utility services.

• Staff presented the Fiscal Year 2023-24 Proposed Annual Budget for the City of Webster.

• City Council approved the Investment Report ending on June 30, 2023.

• City Council approved the Police Department certified officer hiring incentive program through a hiring bonus matrix based on years of service and experience.

• City Council approved a Webster Economic Development Corporation expenditure for the construction of roadways, utilities, and streetlights within Flyway.

For more information on the next City Council meeting, visit our website by scanning the QR code!

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*Special meetings may be added, and meetings may be canceled if there are no agenda items. Check the City website at cityofwebster.com for meeting information.