Shakopee Snapshot: Fall 2025

PUBLIC SAFETY

Check out free, family fun at Fire Station 1 Join us for the annual Fire Department Open House Shakopee Fire is already looking forward to this year's Annual Fire Department Open House, which will take place on Monday, Oct. 6, during Fire Prevention Week. It's a fantastic opportunity for the City’s rescue personnel to connect with community members and reinforce crucial fire safety messages. As October approaches, please take a few simple steps to protect your homes and families. Fire Prevention Week is a time for community members to test their smoke alarms and install new batteries if needed. It's incredibly important to replace smoke alarms every 10 years, as their effectiveness can decrease over time. Additionally, make sure to agree on a family meeting place away from the home in the event of a fire, and create an escape plan that works for all members of the home. These seemingly small actions can make a monumental differ ence in a fire emergency. Our firefighters can’t wait to connect with you in October for demon strations, food, and fun, all while sharing essential fire safety knowledge!

Support second chances for Shakopee residents Join us for the Walk for Recovery 5K

Get ahead of winter fire safety prep As the crisp fall air begins to settle over Shakopee, it’s time to prepare our homes for safe and efficient heating. The Shakopee Fire Department strongly advises the following for optimum fire safety:

■ Schedule an annual professional chimney inspection and cleaning. ■ Burn only dry, seasoned wood. Moist wood creates more creosote and smoke. ■ Ensure your fireplace has a sturdy metal screen to prevent sparks. ■ Dispose of ashes by placing in a metal container with a tight-fitting lid and store it outdoors, away from combustibles, for at least a week. ■ Schedule a professional furnace inspection and tune-up. ■ Replace your furnace filter regularly. ■ Check and clear all vents and registers. Ensure nothing is blocking airflow from your heating vents. ■ Install and test carbon monoxide (CO) detectors. By taking these proactive steps to pre pare your chimneys and furnaces, you can significantly reduce the risk of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning, ensur ing a warm and safe home for your fam ily this winter.

Beyond the essential smoke alarm checks and escape plans, paying special atten tion to your chimney and furnace is cru cial for preventing fires and ensuring your family's safety this winter. A well-maintained chimney is paramount to a safe home. Creosote, a highly flam mable byproduct of burning wood, can accumulate in your chimney flue and pose a significant fire hazard. Obstruc tions like bird nests or debris can also block the chimney, leading to dangerous smoke back-up and potential fires. When it comes to your furnace, neglect can lead to costly breakdowns, reduced efficiency, and even fire or carbon mon oxide risks.

Lace up your sneakers and take a step toward hope at the Walk for Recovery, a 5K walkathon benefit ing the Shakopee Police Department’s Recovery Assistance Program (RAP).

Scan the code to sign up!

RAP provides scholarships to help Shakopee resi dents in recovery meet the costs of sober hous ing and offers critical support during a vulnerable time to increase the chances of long-term suc cess. Your participation in the walkathon directly supports individuals committed to rebuilding their lives and maintaining sobriety. The event is planned for Saturday, Sept. 20, at Sun Path Elementary (2250 17th Ave. E.). Check-in opens at 8:15 a.m., with the walk starting promptly at 9 a.m. Whether you're walking in support of a loved one, your own journey, or to simply give back, every step makes a difference. Register today using the QR code and walk for hope, healing, and recovery in our community.

Fall 2025 11