Governor Tim Walz signed a new hands-free cell phone bill into law April 12 to help further reduce distractions behind the wheel.

Starting Aug. 1, drivers will no longer be able to hold their cell phones in their hands. They will be able to use their phones to make calls, text, listen to music or podcasts and get directions, but only by voice commands or single touch activation without holding the phone.

Remember, hands-free is not necessarily distraction-free. We want Minnesotans to stay safe, stay alive and stay out of trouble under the new law.

Visit the HandsFreeMN website for more information.

In preparation for the storm season, please add these CodeRed phone numbers to your contacts list. By adding these numbers to your contacts, users of the Code Red notification system will know when CodeRed is calling and won’t mistakenly believe it is a telemarketer.

866-419-5000
855-969-4636
800-566-9780 

The CodeRED Community Emergency Alert system is used by Pennington County to notify residents and businesses of critical situations and provide information regarding necessary actions. With this system,

Law enforcement officials are investigating an apparent arson and suspicious death at a residence located at 307 1/2 Arnold Ave. S., Thief River Falls, Minn. 

Are you ready for severe weather? Each year, HSEM in collaboration with the National Weather Service and 16 State and local agencies and organizations sponsors Severe Weather Awareness Week in Minnesota. The week is designed to refresh, remind and educate everyone about the seasonal threats from severe weather and how to avoid them.  Read more...