BURLINGTON POLICE DEPARTMENT
PRESS RELEASE
December 28, 2015
FIRST NIGHT BURLINGTON
You are invited join the Mayor of the City of Burlington, the Chief of Police, and their families at First Night Burlington, one of the most renowned and enjoyable New Year’s celebrations in New England.
The Burlington Police Department is making routine preparations to ensure that First Night is not only a citywide celebration of the end of a great year and the beginning of a new one, but also a safe event for all involved.
Expect to see a uniformed police presence throughout the city. Our staffing is planned in proportion to the size of Burlington’s special events, and First Night is one of the most well-attended events of the year. Plainclothes officers will also be on patrol. Licensed bars and clubs will be subject to routine inspection for safety and adherence to the law.
First Night will be a mix of celebrations, the arts, cultural events, parties and public gatherings. It is traditionally a crowded, loud, celebratory event. There are common-sense rules that will ensure the safety of everyone:
- Pay attention to your surroundings
- Do not leave purses, bags and valuables unattended or in view in a car
- If a member of your group becomes intoxicated, do not separate from them. Seek medical attention if necessary.
- Drink responsibly and in moderation. Do not drink and drive. Walk, or take a cab.
- Cross at crosswalks, with the light
- When driving, avoid the downtown area if possible and use great care. There will be a very high volume of pedestrians
In light of recent nationwide incidents of concern, the Burlington Police Department has conferred with our local, state and federal law enforcement partners in advance of New Year’s Eve. It is important to note that are no specific threats to the city at this time.
Most importantly, if you see something, SAY SOMETHING. This includes cases of disorderly persons, people intoxicated to the point of being unable to care for themselves as well as criminal acts and suspicious activity. The Burling Police Department relies on information from citizens to respond quickly to incidents, to solve crimes, and to resolve situations. Your awareness and cooperation are key.
The Burlington Police Department looks forward to a great beginning to 2016. See you at First Night!
