Police speak on spring break safety

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — St. Joseph police are reminding the public to keep safety in mind as spring break season begins. 

Local law enforcement is keeping a close watch on the expected surge in traffic and patrolling neighborhoods.

"With spring break and the nice weather, there's going to be a lot more people outside," said Sgt. Jeremy Peters with the St. Joseph Police Department. "You can already see that along the park systems, walking trails and roadways."

Police say children and riders on motorcycles are key things to watch out for this time of year.

“Please use extra caution outside while driving, especially,” Peters said. “We haven’t seen many motorcycles out until recently and that’s because the weather is changing so just give yourself extra time while you’re out there driving and maintain safe distances.” 

Police also are reminding people to be aware and obey speed limits when driving through neighborhoods as there could be more children out playing. 

For those traveling for spring break, to ensure safety with children or to an unfamiliar area, police remind families to have an idea of where they’re going and always keep the location of the people they are traveling with. 

Law enforcement officers throughout the city will be patrolling and making sure the public is staying safe. 

“We should be seeing more nice temperatures next week which means there may be an uptick in calls for service,” Peters said. “But as much as possible, we’ll be out interacting with the kids in the community while also making sure people are staying out of trouble.”