With Thanksgiving being one of the most heavily traveled holiday periods of the year, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) encourages everyone to be vigilant as they drive the state’s roadways or waterways.

ALEA is partnering with local law enforcement across the state to create a highly visible enforcement presence.

“Our goal is to prevent crimes and traffic violations that lead to deaths and injuries,” Secretary of Law Enforcement Spencer Collier said in a release. “During the 2013 Thanksgiving period, Alabama had 11 traffic fatalities, and we need you, members of the public, to help as we protect and promote safety this Thanksgiving. Please adhere to the safety tips and safeguards below during this season.”

The safety tips include:

•Use seat belts and child restraints in motor vehicles and life vests on the water. During 2014, seat belts were not used in 51 percent of Alabama State Trooper-investigated fatalities in Alabama. Wear your seatbelt no matter how short the distance.

•Avoid driving or boating while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

•Restrict access and closely monitor teens to prevent underage use of alcoholic beverages.

•Pay attention to speed limits and driving conditions on the road, and obey boating laws on the water.

All available officers will work additional shifts between 6 a.m. Nov. 26 and midnight Nov. 30.

During this time, motorists should expect officers, some in unmarked vehicles, to make enforcement stops on roadways and waterways.

In addition, Troopers will be available to assist motorists and can be reached by dialing *HP (*47) on their cell phones.

 

Fire safety

The Alabama State Fire Marshal’s Office and the National Fire Protection Association is reminding individuals about fire safety tips for the Thanksgiving holiday.

With the kitchen being a heavily used area during Thanksgiving, there are several safety tips to consider:

•Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop so you can keep an eye on the food.

•Stay in the home when cooking your turkey in the oven, as well, and check on it frequently.

•Keep small children away from the stove. The stove will be hot, and kids should stay three feet away.

•Make sure children stay away from hot foods and liquids. The steam or splash from vegetables, gravy or coffee could cause serious burns.

•Keep the floor clear so you don’t trip over toys, pocketbooks or bags.

•Keep knives out of the reach of children.

•Be sure electrical cords from an electric knife, coffee maker, plate warmer or mixer are not dangling off the counter within easy reach of children.

•Keep matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children.

•Never leave children alone in a room with a lit candle.

•Make sure your smoke alarms are working by testing them with the test button.