Skip to content
Virginia Sheriffs' Institute
Supporting Virginia’s Sheriffs & Deputies

The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office honored those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country on Memorial Day. Sheriff Bill Overton shared a few words about Memorial Day, saying, “Courageous men and women have donned the uniform of this country and have defended it with their very lives.” Additionally, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office warns the community against a few dangers as a result of heavy rainfall, including No Wake Zones and flooded highways. The sheriff’s office also urges motorcycle riders to wear proper protective gear.

Franklin County Sheriff’s Office Honors Our Fallen Armed Forces Members

It started as Decoration Day after the Civil War. A day to honor our service members who sacrificed their lives. A day where family and friends would lay flowers on the graves of their loved ones they had lost in battle.

It was called Memorial Day after World War I and, in 1971, the fourth Monday of May was declared nationwide to be Memorial Day.

The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office wishes to have a moment of silence as we remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the protection of our nation.

Sheriff Bill Overton said, “From the Revolutionary War until today, courageous men and women have donned the uniform of this country and have defended it with their very lives. Remembering their sacrifice today, we salute and honor their bravery.”

We will never forget their service.

Memorial Day 2020
Memorial Day 2020

 

No Wake Zones: Very Important After Heavy Rains

The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office advises those operating watercraft to be more attentive to No Wake Zones after heavy rains in the area.

“It is always important to slowly navigate through No Wake Zones, but especially after heavy rain. Heavy rainfall causes wakes to be more dangerous and hazardous to property owners. Many docks are either under or almost under water this morning.” said Sergeant Megan Patterson. “Please be courteous and proceed very slowly inside No Wake Zones.”

Flooding in the Smith Mountain Lake area
Flooding in the Smith Mountain Lake area
Flooding in the Smith Mountain Lake area
Flooding in the Smith Mountain Lake area

Turn Around, Don’t Drown

The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office E911 Center advises everyone to avoid flooded highways due to the recent overabundance of rainfall. The Sheriff’s Office urges citizens to use extra caution while navigating the roadways during this rainy weather. Slow down, and give yourself extra time to get to your destination. Wet roads means it takes longer to stop! Give yourself extra space between vehicles.

It only takes 6 inches of fast moving water to knock over a grown adult and carry them away; 12 inches of water to carry away a small car; and only 18 inches of water to carry away an SUV.

Do you really know how deep the water is?
Do you really know how deep the water is?

 

Sheriff’s Office Urges Motorcycle Operators to “Roll With All Your Gear”

In conjunction with Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office reminds all riders when hitting the roads this summer to make sure to wear all your protective equipment.

As Sheriff Bill Overton is always saying, “Let’s arrive home safe to our families.”

Click HERE to see the video produced by the Virginia DMV.

Roll With the Proper Gear.
Roll With the Proper Gear.