Iowa City Public Safety

10/15/2026

Do you have unwanted or expired medications in your home? Dispose of them safety at the next DEA National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Oct. 24, 2026.

Our event will take place at the East Side Recycling Center, 2401 Scott Blvd. SE.

Learn more here: https://bit.ly/4yQXOir

10/14/2026

Let's get some cats adopted!

10/13/2026

Have a few toilet paper rolls to spare?🧻 You can help our neighbors wipe away their worries this spooky season by donating toilet paper to our food pantry! In-kind donations can be dropped off at the food pantry at 1045 HWY 6 E in Iowa City.

10/13/2026

Did you know the Iowa City Police Department has two positions dedicated to serving victims of domestic assault?

In 1997, the Domestic Violence and Intimate Partner Violence Detective position was created within our Investigation Division. This position is responsible for not only conducting comprehensive follow-up investigations into domestic violence cases in Iowa City, but also serving as a liaison between the victim and critical support services such as the Domestic Violence Intervention Program . The detective works closely with victims, prosecutors, and other entities to promote victim safety, offender accountability, and effective prosecution. Detective Carson Barron currently serves in this role.

Additionally, Ann Thompson serves as ICPD’s full-time Victim Services Coordinator. Ann started as an intern with ICPD in 2019 before transitioning to a full-time role in 2021. In her role, Ann supports crime victims through validation, active listening, and acting as a conduit to support and resources in the area. Ann serves a critical role by helping victims navigate the court process, file no contact orders, and act as a liaison between the victim, law enforcement, and other professionals.

Our department is committed to supporting survivors of domestic violence with dignity, respect, and care.

10/12/2026

Fire Prevention Week might be over, but we've got some bonus content to share!

Last week, ICFD Fire Marshal Axel Swanson accepted the Fire Prevention Week proclamation from Mayor Pro Tem Megan Alter.

Fire prevention is an important component of our fire department's work each and every day! Last year, our crews completed 1,406 fire safety inspections of commercial and University of Iowa buildings. These inspections help identify potential fire hazards, ensure these buildings meet fire code requirements, and keep our community safe.

Fire prevention saves lives, protects property, and begins long before an emergency occurs!

10/12/2026

The Iowa City Police Department responded to 28 collisions between vehicles and pedestrians in 2025.

With Halloween just around the corner, we'd like to remind everyone to keep safety in mind.

Drivers should scan sidewalks, watch your speeds - especially in school zones, and avoid distractions.

Pedestrians can do their part by staying visible, use crosswalks, look both ways before stepping off the curb, and being mindful of their surroundings.

The moment you step out of your vehicle, you become a pedestrian. 🚶‍➡️

For October's National Pedestrian Safety Month, we're reminding everyone that safety is a 2-way street:

👁️ Drivers: Scan crosswalks and stay focused — put the phone away.
👟 Pedestrians: Stay visible, use crosswalks and look both ways before stepping off the curb.

10/09/2026

We are thrilled to introduce the newest member of the ICPD family, K9 Chase.

Chase is a Belgian Malinois who will turn two in December. Chase's specialties include drug and article detection, tracking, and handler protection.

Chase is partnered with Officer Conner Herman. Officer Herman was hired in August 2018 and in addition to being a K9 handler, he is a Field Training Officer, Crime Scene Technician, Accident Investigator, and Special Response Team member.

Chase and Officer Herman are certified through Northern Michigan K9 and the International Working K9 Association.

10/09/2026

It wouldn't be Fire Prevention Week if we didn't air an episode of our favorite game show, Fire Factor!

Parents, take a few minutes to watch this fun and informative video with your kids. It's a great opportunity to discuss fire prevention practices and how they can be applied in your home.

10/08/2026

Here's another valuable Fire Prevention Week tip for you: if the device you're using feels hot, stop using it.

Stop using your device right away if the battery smells strange, is warm to the touch, makes popping noises, changes in shape or color, or if you see smoke. If it is safe, move the device away from anything that can catch fire. A damaged battery can overheat and start a fire.

10/07/2026

The City High School Homecoming Parade is tonight, Wednesday, Oct. 7, and comes with some traffic impacts to keep in mind.

The parade route will begin at Mercer Park, 2701 Bradford Drive, and proceed west on Bradford Drive to First Avenue. The parade will then travel north on First Avenue to Bates Field where it will end.

Traffic will not be allowed on or across the route once the parade begins. Drivers traveling in the area are encouraged to use an alternate route as delays are expected.

Two Iowa City Transit routes, 2- Court Street, and 9- Towncrest, will be impacted by the City High Homecoming Parade starting after 5:30 p.m., and lasting until the parade ends. Riders should expect delays on these routes.

Buses are expected to resume regular service once the parade has concluded around 7 p.m.