Burleson County Sheriff’s Department talks about safety involving Chilifest
SNOOK, Texas (KBTX) – With thousands of people heading out to Chilifest in Snook over the weekend, the Burleson County Sheriff’s office said they were ready for it along with the other law enforcement agencies.
One of the largest issues they have to deal with is traffic due to the many festival-goers coming and going.
“We have the old 60. We’re going to be using that now. That’s going to bring in traffic from the west and flowing in so that we’re not crossing 3058,” Chief Deputy Bill Rios with the Burleson County Sheriff’s Office said.
And with more drivers hitting the road, it means law enforcement is going to have to keep an eye out for drunk drivers.
“We’ve got DPS out here and a lot more of our sheriff’s deputies, and they’re going to be looking for DWIs for people intoxicated. we’re not going to tolerate it. Uber, buses, it’s easy to take one of those. It’s a lot cheaper. DWI’s are going to cost you 10 to 15 thousand dollars,” Rios said.
Law enforcement is also patrolling the fairgrounds, ensuring everything runs smoothly and making sure that nobody brings in drugs or something they shouldn’t, Rios said. Medical assets are also on standby for emergencies.
“We’re not out here to make arrests. We want people to have a good time, enjoy themselves but let’s do it legally,” Rios said.
Cell service has been another big issue in the past, but this year law enforcement looked to Star Link as part of the solution.
“We also have First Net towers that are going to be for us and whoever else has FirstNet out here actually so hopefully we can help some of the cellular problems we had in the past,” Rios said.
The College Station Police Department also released some advice in hopes of keeping people safe during the festival.
CSPD said some vital things people can do include staying hydrated, wearing sun protection, using the buddy system, pacing alcohol consumption and planning transportation.
