Minot Police Watching Fair Closely | Video

Jenny Castro | 7/20/2012

It`s a scary thought to consider, but the unexpected occurrence of a mass shooting is possible anywhere with large crowds of people. At the North Dakota State Fair, Minot law enforcement is trained for what`s called an active shooter.

"Most of our preparation is in just responding to make sure that the damage is as limited as it can be so that we respond as quickly and bring that situation to a resolution as fast as we possibly can,” said Chief Jason Olson.

Although there`s not much to prevent or predict this situation. The police monitor any individuals who don`t seem to be of a healthy state of mind.

"Something we have to do, mental health committals on people that are making threats or acting strange or that sort of thing. So we just make sure you`re doing your job right in that respect," Olson said.

A more controllable concern at the State Fair are the crowds and pedestrians along heavy traffic areas. Police officers are patrolling the State Fair grounds, along with the Sheriff`s Department, and monitoring the reduced speed zones.

"In the past years, there have been times when pedestrians have been hit in those crosswalks so we just want to make sure the public is aware they need to drive carefully out there, watch out for people crossing the road," said Olson.

With the major concern being pedestrian safety, the tragic and unthinkable situation of a shooting is something the Minot law enforcement is trained to handle.

The Sheriff`s Department has extra officers at the State Fair grounds to respond to any fights or medical calls. Police will also be controlling traffic before concerts, Friday until 8:00 p.m. and again tomorrow from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

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