The Grafton Police Department recently installed a "safe room" in the department's lobby for emergencies.
The chief hopes someone in need will be able to use the room during the few times the lobby isn't actually staffed.
"If you come to the police department regardless of what time it is and regardless of what staffing we have you can get the resources you need" said Chief Charles Wenten.
In December of 2018 the dispatch inside the police department consolidated with the Ozaukee County Sheriff's office. That left the lobby at the police department sporadically unstaffed and closed to the public.
"People come here because they know we're open and it's a safe harbor, a safe haven" said Wenten.
So the decision was made to come up with a solution.
Now, the vestibule of the department's lobby can be locked from the inside. If someone is having an emergency they can go in, hit a lock button and contact the Sheriff's Dispatch who will send help immediately.
The department is currently exploring options to further fortify the entrance to protect whoever is inside.
