Montgomery, AL – As springtime approaches and end-of-school-year festivities loom, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is gearing up for its fourth annual ‘Think Smart Before You Start’ spring safety campaign. With students and families preparing for events like spring break, prom, and graduation, ALEA aims to promote safety awareness and responsible decision-making.
Amidst the excitement of the season, ALEA emphasizes the importance of prioritizing safety, especially concerning inexperienced drivers and novice boaters. As spring often sees an increase in the issuance of driver licenses, many of which go to teens embarking on significant journeys behind the wheel, ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor stresses the need for instilling responsible driving behaviors from the start.
Colonel Jonathan Archer, Director of ALEA’s Department of Public Safety, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the tragic consequences of inexperienced drivers making poor choices on the road. He underscores the importance of wearing seat belts, avoiding distractions, and abstaining from impaired driving to prevent needless loss of life.
ALEA also extends its safety message to those planning to enjoy Alabama’s waterways, urging courtesy and vigilance. With warmer temperatures enticing boaters onto the water, ALEA advises wearing life jackets, designating sober captains, and being mindful of new boaters.
To further promote safe boating practices, ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division offers its annual Boating Basics and License Course. Participants can learn essential information about navigating water bodies and earn their boating license.
In addition to educational initiatives, ALEA Troopers conduct mock crash events at schools statewide to raise awareness about the dangers of drinking and driving. Secretary Taylor emphasizes the emotional impact of these events and urges everyone to prioritize safety and think smart before starting any activity.
As part of its spring safety campaign, ALEA offers seven key tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable season:
1. Review safety laws and discuss plans with teens.
2. Always buckle up.
3. Avoid distractions, especially cell phones.
4. Obey traffic laws.
5. Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
6. Have open conversations with teens about the consequences of their actions.
7. Monitor teens at events where alcoholic beverages are present, and establish a Plan B for safe transportation.
By following these guidelines and prioritizing safety, ALEA hopes to prevent accidents and save lives during the spring season and beyond.
