With spring break just around the corner, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is rolling out its fifth annual “Think Smart Before You Start” campaign, urging residents and visitors to prioritize safety during the busy travel season.
As thousands of students and families hit the roads and beaches, ALEA is stepping up its presence across Alabama to ensure safe travels and responsible decision-making. The initiative includes increased traffic enforcement and a continued focus on beach safety along the Gulf Coast.
ALEA will have extra patrols monitoring roadways, with an emphasis on seat belt use, speeding, distracted driving, and impaired driving.
“Spring break is a time for fun and relaxation, but it is crucial that we remember safety should always be a top priority,” said ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor. “We are reminding drivers, especially young drivers, to think smart before they hit the road. Whether you’re traveling to your destination or spending time at the beach, we want to make sure everyone has a safe and enjoyable spring break.”
For the fourth year in a row, ALEA is lending a hand to keep beachgoers safe with its Rescue Swimmer Detail, a joint operation between ALEA’s Aviation Unit and lifeguards from Orange Beach and Gulf Shores.
Using ALEA’s helicopter, rescue swimmers can be rapidly deployed to assist swimmers in distress—a critical feature given the unpredictable Gulf waters. This year the operation will extend beyond peak spring break weeks to include times when rip currents are forecasted throughout the season.
“Rescue swimmers, along with our Aviation Unit, are ready to act quickly in the event of an emergency,” said Lt. Jeremy Burkett, Director of ALEA’s Administrative Bureau. “With the Gulf Coast’s beautiful but sometimes unpredictable waters, we encourage everyone to swim safely, and heed all posted warnings. However, if you find yourself in trouble, we’ll be there as fast as we can.”
Before heading out for spring break, ALEA is urging Alabamians to follow these key safety rules:
Buckle Up for Safety: Don’t forget to click it before you hit the road on your way to the beach! Seat belts save lives, no matter how short the trip.
Speeding Isn’t Worth the Risk: Keep the pedal to the limit—faster doesn’t mean better.
Distracted Driving Destroys Lives: Put the phone down and focus on the road. Your text can wait, but your safety can’t.
Impaired Driving is Never Okay: Whether it’s alcohol or other substances that impair, don’t drive under the influence. Plan a safe ride home.
Plan Ahead, Stay Safe: Have a designated driver or use a ride-share service when going out, and always let someone know where you’ll be.
Know Your Limits at the Beach: Stay hydrated, swim with a buddy, and always follow lifeguard instructions. Check surf and swimming conditions and know the different flag warnings while visiting the beach.
ALEA hopes that with increased awareness and enforcement, this year’s spring break will be both safe and enjoyable for all. By thinking smart before you start, Alabama travelers can make the most of their vacation while staying out of harm’s way.
