Police: Stay safe during Christmas in July

PUT-IN-BAY — Police urged visitors to this weekend's Christmas in July celebrations to be safe and mindful of the law. The annual Put-in-Bay party weekend draws thousands of visitors to South Bass Island. Police see an uptick in minor offenses — open container and noise complaints — during busy weekends. "We're hoping everyone can obey the law and be respectful of everyone else," police Chief Mike Frank said. "I think everyone will be mature about it. If not, we'll enforce the law."Neighboring law enforcement agencies will be on the island to help with the influx of visitors if necessary. Among those agencies: The Ohio State Highway Patrol, Ottawa County Sheriff's Office, Ohio State fire marshals, along with federal park and border patrol officers.The U.S. Coast Guard, Air and Marine patrols will keep an eye on the harbors and docks, according to a news release from Put-in-Bay police. "We'll handle whatever comes up," Frank said. Police highlighted a few key points for visitors to keep in mind:• Keep it in the bars: It's illegal in Ohio to have an open alcoholic container in public. This includes in vehicles and golf carts. Open containers, drunk driving, public intoxication, public urination and possession of illegal drugs won't be tolerated. • Be respectful of the locals: If you wouldn't do it at home, don't do it here. Follow all laws, including local noise ordinances and littering. It appears most of the locals have adapted to the department's community-driven policing. "The residents have been great to us," Frank said. "With all of the national stuff happening right now, we appreciate how they've treated us."Call Put-in-Bay police at 419-285-4121 for assistance.Reach reporter Patrick Pfanner at pfanner@sanduskyregister.com. Follow him on Twitter @PatPfanner and at Facebook.com/PatPfanner. Put-in-Bay police