Local law enforcement is taking precaution while patrolling to save on fuel cost.
The St. Joseph County Police Department said it is spending an extra eight to ten thousand dollars a month on gas, and that their fuel costs are up 40% from normal.
“We’ve sent out memos asking officers to be conscious. To not idle the vehicle if they don’t have to. Also to be cognizant of starting and stopping,” said Steven Noonan, Executive Officer of St. Joseph County Police Department, “Accelerate at a reasonable pace if not on an emergency response.”
They and other departments are finding creative solutions while still serving their community. South Bend Police Department said based on the weather, some patrols have the possibility for walking and biking. South Bend Police department is in the process of transitioning to idle reduction technology and utilizes hybrid vehicles, it told WSBT 22.
While the patrols may be adjusting, SJCPD said cutting back on the hours of patrols is not an option.
“We have not restricted going to calls. We implemented online reporting, which allows citizens to file their own reports,” said Noonan.
Similar to the South Bend Police Department… County Police said they switched a third of its fleet to hybrid patrol vehicles.
“It’s been saving almost 6,000 gallons of gas a year, particularly for the patrol side on the idling. The gas consumption while idling has gone down tremendously,” said Noonan.
WSBT 22 also reached out to the Elkhart Police Department. As of now, it has not made any changes to its operations or spending.