News Releases

Police Urge Parents to be Responsible to Keep Kids Safe at Large Gatherings

Feb 22nd, 2016

The overcrowding of kids at local entertainment spots has become a major safety issue. It has resulted in too many disorderly reports that have led to youth violence or the attempt thereof. Police officers have responded multiple times to peacefully disperse the large crowds of kids at these presumably arranged hangout spots. And, at times, Mobile Police SWAT has had to patrol the perimeter of the area to maintain high-level security on the scene.

The Mobile Police Department will always provide protection from harm, but the safety of children begins with the responsible parent. Police urge parents to follow five important guidelines to keep their kids safe at large gatherings.

1. Parents should check the establishment's admittance policy.
• Does my child meet the age requirement to attend?
• Is there a time for certain age groups to attend?
• What is the establishment's drop-off policy for kids?

2. Don't drop off kids if adult supervision is required.
• Remain present at the establishment with your children.
• Check if adult supervision is required at all times. If your child arrives with someone else make sure that person is responsible and can be contacted in the event of an emergency.
• When parents leave kids unattended for several hours without a ride home it can leave kids to mischief.

3. Parents should be prompt in picking up kids.
• Parents should know what time their children need to be picked up, and arrive on time. This will help control overcrowding.

4. Be aware of the establishment's surroundings.
• Is the parking lot well lit?
• Are there video surveillance cameras on the inside and the outside? And, is that establishment a partner of MPD Project Shield?

5. Parents should encourage their children to report any safety concerns to the officer on duty.
• The open communication kids have with the officers on duty allows for more prompt response to a situation and the elimination of violence that may cause harm to all kids attending.

Kids hear about the hangouts on social media and show up by the masses. Through tips and the monitoring of social media police know where to respond. But, with the help of responsible parents police officers can keep where kids like to go for entertainment safer.

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Charlette Solis
Mobile Police Department
Public Affairs Officer
251-208-1918