By Gary Lloyd
MONTGOMERY — As summer approaches and another school year ends, state law enforcement agencies partner to remind Alabamians whether they’re celebrating close to home or traveling to one of Alabama’s lakes, beaches, or another destination, to ensure safety is part of their summer festivities.
Law enforcement officers across the state will collectively work together to create a highly visible enforcement presence and to promote public safety throughout the summer months ahead.
“Our goal is to reduce injuries and deaths by teaming together to serve and protect the citizens of Alabama,” said Secretary of Law Enforcement Spencer Collier. 
In addition, state law enforcement will combine forces with county and municipal agencies in Alabama to conduct various details designed to enhance public safety and to enforce all laws, including traffic, boating, and alcoholic beverage laws.
With more than 45,000 Alabama high school seniors graduating in May, it’s important to caution graduates, other teenagers and their parents of the dangers associated with alcohol and drugs, a press release stated.
Law enforcement officers urge Alabamians to:
- 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 — on the road or on the water. 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.
- Focus on driving or boating and avoiding such distractions as texting and talking on cell phones.
- Slow down in 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.
- Report anything suspicious to the Alabama Fusion Center’s tip line, 866-229-6220.
- 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 the entire party. If alarms sound, leave rooms right away, using the stairs and avoiding elevators.
- Take care when using grills or building outdoor fires. Never leave them unattended, and place them a safe distance from everyone, especially children and pets. It’s a good idea to designate a 3-foot “safe zone” around the grill or fire.
- Pay attention to weather conditions, particularly when there’s thunder and lightning. Storms can come up quickly, especially in warm weather, so keep an eye to the sky. Watch for temperature changes, shifts in wind patterns and changes in cloud formations.
Contact Gary Lloyd at news@trussvilletribune.com and follow him on Twitter @GaryALloyd.
