The Red Bluff Police Department Traffic Division

TRAFFIC OFFICER:

As of August, 2003, The Red Bluff Police Department assigned Officer Ryon Mitchell as the full-time traffic officer. To date, Officer Mitchell has served the City of Red Bluff for over four years, three of those years dedicated to the many tasks and programs associated with the traffic program.

The Red Bluff Police Department utilizes a 2001 Harley Davidson FLHTP-I Police Motorcycle. The police motorcycle is equipped with a "Kustom" brand PRO LASER III handheld laser radar. Most Red Bluff Police Department patrol vehicles are equipped with "Stalker Dual" dash mounted moving radar systems.

MISSION:

It is the goal of the Red Bluff Police Department to ensure the safety of motorists and pedestrians within the city. This goal is reached by not only enforcing the laws set forth by The California Legislature and the city ordinances set forth by the Red Bluff City Council, but by educating the public as well.

EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS:

The Red Bluff Police Department offers many ways to educate the public, young and old alike.

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  DUI AND DRIVERS LICENSE CHECKPOINTS: Officers check drivers for valid or suspended drivers licenses and for being under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
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  SEATBELT SATURATION ENFORCEMENT: During designated time periods, officers actively search for drivers and passengers who are not wearing their seatbelts. Officers also look for children who are not properly secured in a child safety seat restraint system.
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  CHILD SAFETY SEAT INSPECTION CLINICS: The Red Bluff Police Department is proud to be part of a multi-agency team entitled "The Tehama County Injury Prevention Task Force". This team periodically designates specific locations within the Tehama County cities to hold "FREE" child safety seat inspections. At these clinics team members will inspect child safety seats for any defects, recalls and for proper installation. We also ensure the child safety seat is the proper seat for the child using it. The parents, guardians or persons using the child safety seats in their vehicles are then instructed in the proper installation and uses of their child safety seat.
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  BICYCLE / SKATEBOARDING SAFETY CLASSES: Juveniles under the age of fifteen who are cited for bicycle or skateboarding violations, who are first time offenders, are generally eligible to attend a bicycle / skateboarding safety class. In lieu of a court appearance and fine, the juvenile may attend the safety class put on by the traffic officer. This class teaches the student about the laws and city ordinances pertaining to riding bicycles and skateboards.
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  SCHOOL PRESENTATIONS / DEMONSTRATIONS:
  -The Annual Mock Crash is conducted at the different high schools throughout Tehama County. This event educates teenage students about the aftermath caused by an under the influence collision. Including; a staged collision scene, injured classmates, deceased classmates, field sobriety tests, an arrest and booking at the Tehama County Jail, a visit to the mortuary and testimony from guest speakers that have been in some way a victim to a fatal DUI crash.
  -Bicycle Rodeos are conducted at the elementary schools. These educate young children on how to properly and safely ride their bikes. Part of this demonstration allows the students to ride their bikes through an obstacle course so they can demonstrate what they have learned.
  -The High School Seatbelt Challenge. In 2005, the Red Bluff High School and the Corning High School participated in an educational program wherein each school learned about seatbelt safety. Each school then competed against the other in presentations, rallies, and a seatbelt usage survey conducted by school staff and members of the Tehama County Injury Prevention Task Force.
  -Driving Under the Influence Presentation. In May of 2005, Members of the Red Bluff Police Department, Tehama County District Attorney's Office and guest speakers conducted a DUI presentation to the Junior and Senior classes of the Red Bluff High School. This presentation was funded by a grant awarded by the California Office of Traffic Safety and was a great success.
  RADAR TRAILER:
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  The Red Bluff Police Department utilizes a portable radar trailer. This radar trailer assists in traffic and speed surveys. When placed in front of schools or on streets identified by citizens as problem speed areas, the trailer assists in monitoring the speed problems and tends to slow down vehicular traffic while it is present.

SAFETY TIP:

• Always leave a little early. This should assist you in resisting the urge to speed, to make unsafe passing movements and to roll stop signs. Not being in a hurry will allow you to be more relaxed while driving and more alert to other vehicles, pedestrians and potential road hazards. Remember, the goal is to make it to your destination safely.

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