Columbus Department of Public Safety

08/27/2026

Avery’s courage and strength are remarkable.

After surviving a traumatic dog attack, she faced another difficult moment when it was time to testify in court. That’s when Columbus Police Therapy Dog Maverick and his handler stepped in to provide some much-needed comfort and support.

It’s a powerful example of why the CPD Therapy Dog Unit exists: to help victims and survivors through some of the hardest moments imaginable.

Thank you, Maverick. And most of all, thank you, Avery, for showing all of us what bravery looks like.

08/21/2026

Our thoughts are with everyone impacted by today’s flooding across Columbus. For many of our neighbors, this has been a stressful and difficult day.

We’re also incredibly grateful for the courage and skill of our Columbus firefighters and their fellow first responders. Today’s swift-water rescues are a powerful reminder of the risks they take to protect others when every second matters.

Thank you to Columbus Fire, Columbus Police, Madison Township Fire and Truro Township Fire for answering the call and bringing everyone home safely.

Please continue to take flooding seriously, avoid high water and give our crews the space they need to work safely.

08/20/2026

08/18/2026

When hard times hit, Columbus comes together.

After last week’s tornado left a path of damage across the South Side, dozens of community members and City of Columbus employees showed up in the rain to help neighbors clear debris and begin the road to recovery.

Thank you to the Department of Neighborhoods and Keep Columbus Beautiful for organizing, and to every volunteer who lent a hand, including members of the Columbus Division of Police.

This is what community looks like: neighbors helping neighbors when it matters most.

08/17/2026

Congratulations Columbus Division of Fire Recruit Class 124!

We thank you for your commitment, and welcome you to a proud career of service to the residents of Columbus.

Please join us in congratulating Columbus Division of Fire Recruit Class 124, who are now officially Columbus Firefighters!

The graduation ceremony was held this morning at the Dr. Ned Pettus Jr. Fire Training Academy. We are proud to welcome these new firefighters as they begin their careers serving and protecting the Columbus community.

Congratulations, Class 124!

08/14/2026

Columbus Division of Fire 124th Recruit Class Graduation
August 14, 2026

08/11/2026

07/17/2026

Air quality in Central Ohio has reached hazardous levels due to wildfire smoke from Canada.

Smoke from these wildfires contains fine particles that can affect everyone's health, especially children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and people with asthma, heart disease, or other respiratory conditions.

To protect yourself and your loved ones:
• Stay indoors as much as possible and keep windows and doors closed.

• Run your air conditioner on recirculate if possible and use a clean air filter.

• Avoid strenuous outdoor activities, including exercise, yard work, and prolonged time outside.

• If you must be outdoors, consider wearing a well-fitted N95 mask to help filter fine smoke particles.

• Keep pets indoors as much as possible and limit outdoor walks.

• If you experience chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe coughing, or worsening asthma symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. Call 911 for life-threatening emergencies.

Continue monitoring local air quality conditions, as smoke levels can change throughout the day.

07/17/2026