By Gary Lloyd
The State of Alabama Integrated State Law Enforcement Task Force last week released seven steps to take to enjoy a safer spring break.
According to a news release from the Alabama Department of Public Safety, task force officers will be working together to create a “highly visible enforcement presence during spring break season intended to prevent crimes and violations that lead to deaths and injuries.”
All available personnel will combine forces with county and municipal agencies along Alabama’s Gulf Coast and across the state to conduct various details designed to enhance public safety and to enforce all laws — including traffic, boating and alcoholic beverage laws.
Officers urge everyone to keep these suggestions in mind:
- Make hotel/motel stay safe: Choose establishments that are protected by smoke alarms and fire sprinkler systems. Once in rooms, guests should review escape plans with their entire party
. If alarms sounds, guests should leave the room right away, using the stairs and avoiding elevators. - Be mindful of hot coals when camping or cooking outdoors: Do not dump them in or around dry grass, leaves or other flammable materials.
- Restrict access and closely monitor teens to prevent underage use of alcoholic beverages.
- Avoid driving or boating while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Buckle up — no matter how short the trip: Occupants of all ages should use seat belts or child restraints when traveling by motor vehicles. On waterways, all occupants of water vessels should use U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets. It’s important to focus on driving or boating, avoiding such distractions as texting and talking on cell phones.
- Don’t barrel through construction zones along the way: Drivers pose the greatest danger in work zone crashes by not paying attention, speeding and driving while impaired or distracted.
- Remember Alabama’s Graduated Driver License law: Parents of teen drivers should review the state’s three-stage licensing process that places certain restrictions on young drivers to ensure they acquire driving experience. Stage I is learner’s permit, Stage II is restricted license and Stage III is unrestricted license.
School spring break for Trussville City Schools and Jefferson County Schools is next week.
Contact Gary Lloyd at news@trussvilletribune.com and follow him on Twitter @GaryALloyd.