File photo. 

Spring Break is rampant in Long Beach, with the city’s youth expected to descend upon the usual beachy locations to celebrate their lessened workloads and sudden freedom from rigorous class schedules. The Long Beach Police Department released Spring Break safety information Monday to better prevent residents and youth from becoming victims of crime.

Parents and youth were reminded that the city’s curfew law will be strictly enforced. Section 9.58.010 of the Long Beach Municipal Code states that “It is unlawful for any minor under the age of eighteen (18) years to remain in or upon any ‘public place’ as defined in Section 9.02.090, between the hours of 10:00PM until 6:00AM the following day.”

Minors on the street past curfew are far more likely to be victimized by violent crime or to become involved in criminal behavior, according to the release. Curfew laws are in place to keep children/youth safe and will be enforced by officers with their safety in mind.

Also to be strictly enforced is the LBPD’s zero-tolerance policy for underage alcohol consumption. Underage persons found to be drinking will be cited/arrested for appropriate alcohol violations, while any individual found to be contributing to the delinquency of a minor will also be appropriately cited and/or arrested, stated the release.

The following Street Safety recommendations were released by the LBPD:

  • Do not make it obvious that you have an iPod, cell phone, or other electronic device
  • Whenever possible, avoid using your electronic device on the street
  • Don’t display your valuables in public (money, jewelry, etc.)
  • Always be alert and aware of your surroundings and the people around you
  • Stay in well-lighted areas as much as possible
  • Places that make you vulnerable include dark parking lots, walkways, alleyways, and restrooms
  • If you feel someone is following you, move to a well-populated area
  • Travel with a friend; there is safety in numbers
  • Walk close to the curb and avoid doorways, bushes, and alleys where someone could hide
  • Report suspicious activity immediately by calling 9.1.1.

The following Home Safety tips were provided by the LBPD:

  • Meet your neighbors, this makes it easier to recognize a person that doesn’t belong, and neighbors that communicate are more likely to look out for one another
  • Report loiterers—loitering is often a precursor activity for burglars, enabling them to case the area
  • Immediately report suspicious activity, including loiterers, by calling 9-1-1, and be sure to get a good description of any subjects you report as well as location
  • Keep any gates to backyards locked and secure at all times
  • Be sure your house number is visible from the street, should Police or emergency personnel ever need to respond to your location it allows them to find the location more quickly
  • Keep porch lights on at night—this makes any suspicious persons visible, as well as your house number
  • When away for extended periods, make sure your home has the “lived in” look—have lights on timers and ask a neighbor to park in your driveway, clear any newspapers and fliers that may accumulate, and check your property periodically.

Asia Morris is a Long Beach native covering arts and culture for the Long Beach Post. You can reach her @hugelandmass on Twitter and Instagram and at [email protected].