MONTGOMERY, AL — As Alabamians prepare for the long Memorial Day weekend, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is urging the public to make safety a top priority — whether on the road, on the water, or at holiday destinations. The holiday marks the launch of ALEA’s annual 101 Days of Summer Safety campaign, a statewide effort that spans from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Designed to reduce injuries and save lives during one of the busiest travel seasons of the year, the campaign combines education, enforcement, and emergency response initiatives.
“Memorial Day is a time to honor those who gave everything for our freedom, and the best way we can pay tribute is by protecting one another on the roads and waterways,” said ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor. “As we launch our ‘101 Days of Summer Safety’ campaign, I urge everyone to travel safely, celebrate wisely, and return home with lifelong memories.”
Throughout the summer, ALEA will address a wide range of safety concerns — from impaired and distracted driving to speeding, seat belt usage, and boater safety. The agency will also participate in nationwide initiatives such as Click It or Ticket and Operation Dry Water, which target unbuckled motorists and impaired boaters, respectively.
“Our goal is simple — we want everyone to enjoy their summer plans and return home safely,” said Colonel Jonathan Archer, Director of ALEA’s Department of Public Safety. “Through education, enforcement, and rapid emergency response, we are working around the clock to protect Alabama’s residents and visitors.”
ALEA’s summer operations include a unique component along Alabama’s Gulf Coast — the Rescue Swimmer Detail. This specialized unit, working in coordination with the agency’s Aviation Unit, deploys trained swimmers from Orange Beach and Gulf Shores to assist with water emergencies, particularly during high-risk rip current events.
“Our Aviation Unit and local rescue swimmers are standing by, ready to launch at a moment’s notice,” said Captain Jeremy Burkett, Director of ALEA’s Administrative Bureau. “It’s one more way the ALEA Aviation Unit is going above and beyond to protect lives this summer.”
ALEA is encouraging the public to follow the agency’s official social media platforms (@ALEAProtects) for the latest safety tips, weather alerts, and travel updates. The agency has also provided quick reminders for both motorists and boaters:
Motorist Tips:
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Buckle Up Every Ride, Every Time – Seat belts save lives. No excuses.
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Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over – Buzzed driving is drunk driving.
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Don’t Speed into Summer – Obey posted limits and slow down in work zones.
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Eyes on the Road, Not Your Phone – That text can wait. Distraction kills.
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Rest Before You Roll – Drowsy driving is as dangerous as drunk driving.
Boater Tips:
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Life Jackets Save Lives – Wear it. Every ride. Every wave.
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Don’t Drink and Boat – Alcohol and water are a deadly mix.
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Check the Forecast Before You Float – Storms and rip currents don’t take holidays.
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File a Float Plan – Let someone know your destination and return time.
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Know Before You Go – Ensure your boat is properly equipped and passengers are prepared.
As Memorial Day ushers in a season of travel and recreation, ALEA remains committed to keeping Alabamians safe — on the highways, in neighborhoods, and on the water. For more information, visit www.alea.gov.
