Letter in response about parade

I have attached a parade handout that is given to anyone who wishes to be in a parade in Gallatin. The rules outlined are for the welfare of the public and participants. These restrictions are also directly related to suggestions from the city’s insurance carriers and are in response to various incidents, accidents and injuries at parades across the country.

I have been with the Gallatin Police Department for 18 years, and in that time I have worked every parade, as well as been a participant in several. On more than one occasion I have seen children run in front of vehicles or get to close to floats in an attempt to retrieve candy.

As you know a parade float can be large and have limited visibility and we certainly do not want anyone to be injured at an event that is intended to be fun. Therefore, we regulate the throwing of candy to persons walking in the parade as opposed to an outright ban on candy, as many other cities have done.

As with all parades, a Police vehicle is required to lead the Parade to clear the route of any traffic or pedestrians and to let the public know the parade has begun. I  have also at times observed a vehicle unknowingly pull onto the roadway only to see the patrol vehicle and pull back off. I’m confident that everyone wants a safe and enjoyable parade, and I believe these safeguards go a long way in assuring that this happens.

Chief Mark Richards, Gallatin Police Department