Latest local news, weather and high school sports from the Midlands

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) -- Richland County officials are scheduled to kick off a campaign to raise awareness about public safety.

State Rep. Mia Butler Garrick, Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott and Solicitor Dan Johnson are among the officials helping open a public safety campaign Tuesday in northeast Richland County.

State Law Enforcement Division Chief Reggie Lloyd and state Sen. Joel Lourie are also planning to attend the forum that officials hope will create an open dialogue about safety issues that affect the community.

Organizers say a similar event is planned soon for Kershaw County.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)