ALEA Launches “Standards and Success” Safety Campaign for July Fourth Holiday

As the Fourth of July approaches, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is ramping up efforts to ensure safe travel across the state’s roads and waterways. This year’s campaign, themed “Standards and Success,” emphasizes the importance of making safety a personal responsibility.

To support the initiative, ALEA will have all available troopers on patrol during the holiday weekend, focusing on both enforcement and public education. The agency is highlighting four key safety standards:

• Always wear a seat belt, no matter the distance of the trip
• Eliminate distractions by putting the phone down while driving
• Obey speed limits to reduce the likelihood and severity of crashes
• Avoid driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or while fatigued

The agency’s goal is to prevent injuries and save lives by encouraging responsible behavior and holding dangerous drivers and boaters accountable.

In addition to roadway safety, ALEA is increasing patrols on lakes, rivers, and coastal waters, where boating activity typically surges during the holiday. As part of a national campaign known as Operation Dry Water, ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division will be actively looking for impaired boat operators and removing them from the water to prevent accidents.

ALEA is also focusing on swimmer and beachgoer safety. For the fourth straight year, the agency will operate a Rescue Swimmer Detail along the Gulf Coast in partnership with the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Fire Departments. A helicopter will patrol the shoreline, provide rapid response to swimmers in distress, and monitor areas not covered by lifeguards.

With unpredictable weather common during summer months, ALEA is urging residents and visitors to check forecasts before heading outdoors. Sudden storms can create hazardous conditions, especially on the water. Beachgoers are also advised to understand the meaning of beach warning flags to avoid dangerous surf conditions.

As families and friends gather to celebrate Independence Day, ALEA is encouraging everyone to prioritize safety and help ensure that the holiday weekend ends with everyone returning home safely.