Rye Police and Fire Launch Summer Safety Campaignin Collaboration with Public Safety Organizations

RYE —  Police Chief Kevin Walsh and Fire Chief Mark Cotreau are pleased to share that Rye Police and Fire, along with regional and statewide public safety partners, will launch a campaign to take proactive steps to start a safety campaign for 114 days of summer.

According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, the June 20 solstice marks the official first day of summer. As warmer weather and longer days approach, outdoor activities including biking, beach trips, barbecues, sporting events and more are popular choices for summer entertainment. 

The goal of the campaign is to promote safe driving and boating practices, as well as educate on the consequences of irresponsible behavior. Participating agencies
include Seacoast police and fire departments, Marine Patrol, Office of Highway Safety, and the New Hampshire Liquor Commission Division of Enforcement.

In recent weeks Rye Police have seen an increase in calls regarding motor vehicles and motorcycle safety infractions. These include but are not limited to, driving under
the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs, not following posted traffic signs such as
speed limits and stop signs, open containers of alcohol on the beach, and other
irresponsible behavior on the beach and public property.

Through this collaboration, Rye Police, Rye Fire, and Seacoast departments are addressing the increase in risky behavior across the Seacoast through proactive policing, community involvement, and public participation and education as the safety and well-being of community members are of the utmost importance. 

Proactive patrols entail officers engaging in law enforcement activities to prevent
crimes and enhance public safety.

•  Beach patrols, officers will provide proactive patrols on the beach to include an additional layer of security and support to lifeguards. Officers help monitor the beach to respond quickly to any emergencies or incidents lifeguards may need assistance with. Officers will also be actively monitoring alcohol violations, such as underage drinking and public intoxication.
• Office of Highway Safety patrols blanket highways, and is a strategic approach to enhancing highway safety, enforcing traffic laws, and promoting responsible driving behavior.
• Rye Police and New Hampshire Liquor Commission Division of Enforcement will be conducting compliance checks with businesses. This will also include staff training and voluntary reporting of false IDs, to ensure safe services of alcohol. 
• Rye Police will assist with summer parking enforcement and help monitor parking at the beach during peak season. 
• Rye Police officers ask residents and visitors to remain safe and vigilant, and if they see something say something. Double and triple-check that vehicles are locked and never leave valuable items in your vehicle unattended.
• Rye Police and Fire encourage parents and adults to keep children close when at the beach. Teach children to find a lifeguard or police officer if they get lost. Teach them basic personal family information.
• Rye Police and Fire remind residents and visitors to use a buddy system when swimming and to never swim alone.
• Residents and visitors are reminded to put down their cellphones and other distractions while driving. 
• Always wear a life jacket when boating or participating in water sports. 
• Rye Police and Fire share that beach fire permits can be obtained in the Rye Public Safety building and are free of charge to Rye residents over 18 years of age. 

Residents and community members are encouraged to remain safe and vigilant this summer and see something say something. They are also reminded to follow beach laws, adhere to the posted traffic signs, and never get behind the wheel under the influence. 

“Our goal is to educate community members on safety issues and ways to enhance safety measures effectively across Rye and the Seacoast,” said Police Chief Walsh. “By working together, we can create a safer environment for everyone this summer. We are committed to prioritizing the safety and well-being on the seacoast of New Hampshire to ensure that everyone can enjoy a secure summer.”

“The safety of the residents and visitors of Rye is of utmost importance, and we are grateful to be able to partner with other public safety organizations to ensure safe practices this summer,” said Fire Chief Cotreau. 

Rye Police, Rye Fire, and the Seacoast communities would like to wish everyone a safe and happy summer. 

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