!Get your tickets for the 2025 Nebraska Sheriff’s Association Gun Raffle

• 1 Ticket-$50.00
• 52 Guns to be drawn for  – $0.96 per drawing
• 100% of the proceeds go to the Nebraska Sheriff’s Association

Tickets can be obtained through any Nebraska Sheriff’s Office
Maximum of 1500 tickets to be sold starting July 1, 2025. Drawing will be held December 4, 2025.

To be raffled:

1) Diamondback DB15 5.56

2) Howa Gamepro 30-06

3) Sig Sauer P365 X-Marco 9MM

4) RugerAmerican Rifle 243 Win

5) Radical Firearms RF-15

6) Pointer Acrius Field 20/26CMPT20 Gauge

7) Savage ArmsAxis 2 XP 270 Win

8) Golden Boy Lever 22LR BL/WD22 LR

9) Winchester WPR Vortex Scope Combo 270 WIN

10) Diamondback DB15 5.56

11) Tisas 1911A1 US Army WWII 45 ACP

12) CZ 457 Varmint 17HMR Bl/WD 20.5

13) Tisas 1911 Raider 45 ACP

14) Weatherby Vangaurd Obsidlan 22-250

15) Radical Firearms RF-15

16) Savage Stevens Pointer Acrius Field O/U28

17) Ruger Max-9 9 MM

18) Browning A-Bolt III Hunter 308 Win

19) Ruger 10/22 Carbine 22 LR

20) Diamondback DB 15 5.56

21) Glock G27 40 S&W

22) Hi-Point 10TS Carbine 10MM

23) Ruger American Predator Rifle 308 Win

24) Keltec Sub-2000 Gen 3 9 MM

25) Radical Firearms RF-15

26) Rock Island Armory VR60 Shotgun 12 Gauge

27) Glock G19 G5 9MM

28) Mossberg 500 All-Purpose Field 410 Bore

29) Taurus 605 357 Magnum/38 Special

30) Diamondback DB 15 5.46

31) Winchester SXP Defender 20 Gauge

32) Mossberg Patriot Rifle 6.5 Creedmoor

33) Ruger Security -9 9MM

34) CR Cascade 270 WIN

35) Radical Firearms RF-15

36) Bergara Redge 270 Win

37) Canik METE MC9 9MM

38) Ruger American Rifle 243 Win

39) Legacy Sports International Coach 20 Gauge

40) Diamondback DB15 5.56

41) Taurus 4410 Judge Tracker 410 Bore/45 Colt

42) Smith & Wesson M&P Sheild M2.0 40 S&W

43) Charles Daly 301 Field 20 Gauge

44) Taurus 65.537 Magnum/38 Special

45) Radical Firearms RF-15

46) Tokarev USA TX3 Heavy Duty 12 Gauge

47) Glock G42 380 ACP

48) Savage Arms Stevens 334 308 Win

49) Canik Mete MC9LS 9 MM

50) Diamondback DB15 5.56

51) Ruger American Predator 204 Ruger

52) Radical Firearms RF-15

Halloween, with its costumes, candies, and carved pumpkins, is one of the most beloved holidays of the year. However, amidst all the fun, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. Whether you’re a child trick-or-treating, a teenager attending a party, or an adult hosting an event, taking precautions is a must. Here are ten ways to ensure you have a safe and spooky Halloween.

1. Plan Your Route
   For parents with little trick-or-treaters, it’s essential to plan your route in advance. Stick to well-lit neighborhoods and well-known streets. Knowing where you’re going will not only ensure a safer journey but also prevent kids from getting too tired.
2. Choose Safe Costumes
   Whether you’re a parent or a reveler, selecting the right costume is key. Opt for flame-resistant materials and costumes that fit well, reducing the risk of tripping. Bright, reflective colors and accessories also increase visibility, especially at night.
3. Use Makeup Instead of Masks
   Masks can obstruct your vision, making it difficult to navigate safely. Consider using face paint or makeup to create the desired look. If a mask is a must, make sure it has large eye holes for clear sight.
4. Carry Flashlights or Glow Sticks
   Visibility is crucial, especially when trick-or-treating after dark. Equip yourself and your children with flashlights or glow sticks to ensure that you can see and be seen by others.
5. Stay on Well-Lit Paths
   Whether you’re walking through the neighborhood or a haunted house, stay on well-lit paths. Avoid shortcuts through dark alleys, overgrown areas, or dimly lit streets.
6. Check Treats Thoroughly
   For children, the excitement of Halloween candy is unparalleled. However, it’s essential to inspect the treats before indulging. Discard any open or tampered packages, and check for allergens or potential choking hazards.
7. Trick-or-Treat in Groups
   It’s always safer to go trick-or-treating in a group. There’s strength in numbers, and children and adults alike can look out for each other. Plus, it’s more fun to share the Halloween experience with friends and family.
8. Set Ground Rules
   If you’re sending your children out to trick-or-treat, establish a set of ground rules. Make sure they know your contact information, the curfew, and what to do in case they get separated from the group.
9. Don’t Overdo It with Decorations
   When decorating your home, be mindful of the placement of props, lights, and candles. Avoid creating tripping hazards and keep decorations away from flammable objects. Ensure that pathways are clear for visitors.
10. Plan a Sober Ride
    For those attending Halloween parties, planning a sober ride home is non-negotiable. If you’re hosting an event, consider offering non-alcoholic drink options and encouraging your guests to use designated drivers, taxis, or rideshare services.

Halloween is a time for spooky fun, but safety should always come first. By following these ten tips, you can ensure that your Halloween celebration is both memorable and secure. Whether you’re out trick-or-treating or hosting a haunted gathering, taking precautions is the best way to enjoy a Halloween that’s full of treats and free from tricks.

Happy Halloween from Washington County Sheriff’s Department!

If you received storm damage from the windstorm on Saturday, 8-9-25, please send an email to: StormDamage2025@washingtoncountyne.gov

Include your name, address, what was damaged, and estimated dollar amount.  Our department needs this information to send a report to Nebraska Emergency Management to see if we qualify for Federal Assistance.

A Guide for Washington County Visitors

As the summer celebrations light up our skies, we’re excited to welcome visitors—and their dazzling fireworks—to Blair and Washington County! But with great sparkle comes great responsibility. Here’s how to ensure a fun and safe experience:

1. Know the Nebraska Rules

• Fireworks are legal for personal use in Washington County, but only from June 28 to July 5 and December 23 to January 1, per state regulations.
• You must be at least 18 to purchase and use fireworks.
• Bottle rockets, sky lanterns, and fireworks that fly or explode beyond 3 feet in height remain illegal.

2. Set Up Safely

• Choose a clear, open area, away from buildings, dry grass, trees, and flammable structures.
• Keep 25–40 yards between fireworks and spectators.
• Have a full water bucket or garden hose ready—better safe than sorry!

3. Handle Responsibly

• Always wear protective eyewear and never lean over fireworks when lighting.
• Use a long-handled lighter, one firework at a time—never relight “duds.”
• Put used fireworks in water to fully extinguish before disposal.

4. Protect Pets and Neighbors

• Inform neighbors of your plans—some people and pets are sensitive to loud noises.
• Bring pets indoors, provide a quiet escape, and remove anxiety triggers.
• Keep soil moist, mow grass, and clean your area to minimize fire risks.

5. Know When to Call 911

• Dial 911 immediately if you witness:
  • A fire spreading beyond control
  • A serious injury (deep burns, loss of consciousness)
• For non-emergencies like complaints about noise or unsafe use, contact the Washington County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency line at (402) 426‑4425.

If you receive a call that you missed jury duty from a Lt. Judkins from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and this person had a southern accent, it is a scam call.  Do not give them any information or access to money.  The Sheriff’s Office will not call and solicit money if you miss jury duty. Besides, Lt. Judkins does not have a southern accent.

It’s that time of year for the annual Nebraska Sheriff’s Association gun raffle. This is the main fundraiser for the Association.  The Sheriff’s Association has been instrumental in supporting/opposing legislative bills that affect all aspects of law enforcement.  The Association along with the State FOP, Police Officer’s Association, and Police Chiefs Association were instrumental in legislation awarding law enforcement officers longevity pay through the state and free college tuition for dependents of law enforcement officers at state colleges. The fundraiser also helps fund the annual conference in Kearney and awarding a yearly scholarship.

A maximum or 1500 tickets will be sold between July 1, 2024 to December 1, 2024. Drawing will be December 5, 2024.

Tickets are $50 each.  Each ticket gives you an opportunity to win 52 times. that’s only .96 per chance.  If you want to purchase a ticket, stop by the sheriff’s office at 444 So 16th St in Blair anytime between 8-4:30. Either cash or check (payable to NE Sheriff’s Association) accepted, or contact the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.

Sponsored by the Washington County FOP Lodge 36

Enter to win a 2024 gas-powered Yamaha golf cart!
$11,000 value

• Mag Wheels
• Blue-Tooth Speaker
• Light Bar
• 4 Year Warranty

Tickets:
$10 each or 6 for $50

Contact the Sheriff’s office to purchase tickets.

Winner to be drawn on August 17, 2024