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Safety First newsletter

Current issue: April 28, 2026Subscribe to Safety First today 
Sisters
Nova and her sister, Norie

OJP: Two dogs — one mission of comfort, courage and strength

With support from our Office of Justice Programs (OJP), two extraordinary facility dogs — Stuffy at CornerHouse and Nova in Stearns County — are helping victims and children find their voice.  

When they approach a child who’s too scared to talk about something unimaginable that’s happened, they bring a calm that helps the child feel brave enough to open up. 

Read more about how Stuffy and Nova help young victims.

MMIR cropped

MMIR: Attend a remembrance ceremony for missing and murdered Indigenous relatives

Join the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives (MMIR) Office as we honor those whose lives have been claimed by violence. This public commemoration is open and welcome to all who wish to listen, reflect and stand in solidarity with families who continue to seek answers and justice. 

  • May 5 from noon to 2 p.m.
  • Minneapolis American Indian Center, 1530 E. Franklin Ave.

Find other MMIR Day of Awareness events around the state.

 

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Commissioner's Corner: Call before you dig

It may be the end of April — and the end of National Safe Digging Month — but it’s just the beginning of digging season.

Before you take a shovel to your garden or start building your dream patio, call 811 to make sure you won’t hit a pipeline. 

Our Office of Pipeline Safety has tips to keep you safe the whole season. Find more information about 811 and how to keep your home safe.

Distracted driving

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When you’re driving, pay attention to the road. It’s easy, and children learn by watching you. If there are children in the back seat, remember: How you drive today is how they may drive tomorrow. 

Save a life by teaching good habits. Extra law enforcement is on Minnesota roads through the end of April to stop distracted driving.

Follow DPS on Instagram and get tips on how to limit distractions while driving.

About the newsletter

We are here to keep people safe and improve the lives of those who live, work and play in Minnesota. 

Part of that is making sure you have all the information you need to make safe decisions for your loved ones. 

Safety First brings that information to you every other week along with updates on what we are doing to serve you, the people of Minnesota.