Graduation season (and summer) is upon us – Message from the Sheriff

As the school year ends and classmates start new paths, we at the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office want to congratulate all our graduates of the Class of 2023, and wish them the very best as they head out into the world. Some of our seniors may be preparing for college, others preparing for a career, and the rest still deciding. No matter where you are headed in life, we want to say congratulations, good luck, have fun, and stay safe!

A reminder to our community: As students of all ages are being dismissed for the summer break, remember to be safe and drive cautiously, as children will be out playing, riding bikes and enjoying the summer weather.

Of course, summer weather means higher temperatures, so remember these tips to beat the heat:

•      Take frequent water breaks
•      Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15
•      Never leave children or pets unattended in a vehicle
•      Seek medical attention immediately for any signs of heat-related illness

We would also like to remind everyone traveling in a vehicle to always wear your seat belt and never drink and drive. Seat belt use is a very effective way to protect people and reduce fatalities in motor vehicle crashes. Do not drink and drive – instead, call on a designated driver to get you home safely. Not only do you risk your life when you drive impaired, you are putting the other drivers and passengers on the roadway at risk too.

While you are traveling the roadways, boating, camping, or fishing, please remember to practice safety at all times. Mind the speed limits and always be on the lookout for children at play and crossing the streets.

The Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office hopes everyone has a great summer! Congratulations again to all our graduates!

Sheriff Randy “Country” Seal

Memorial Day Travel Safety

Many Americans are planning to travel during the upcoming holiday weekend. A recent survey by Travelocity stated that nearly 80% of surveyed adults who said they plan to travel on Memorial Day, plan to travel by car. An article by AAA states that due to the low gas prices we have seen this year, more than a third of Americans plans to take a family vacation of 50 miles or more from home this year.

The following are good reminders as you prepare to take to the road during the Memorial Day travel weekend.

• Buckle your safety belt – it’s the best way to stay safe in a vehicle and remember, the national Click It or Ticket program is in full swing over the holiday weekend

• Put down the cell phone – nearly 10 people are killed and over 1,000 injured every day in crashes involving distracted drivers – don’t text and drive!

• Don’t drink and drive – even one alcoholic drink can reduce your abilities and impair your judgment

• Be prepared – bring a smartphone, GPS device, or a printed map; make sure your spare tire is inflated and you know how to change it; have your car serviced before heading out; include an emergency kit with water and snacks; refuel before you absolutely have to

• Turn down the music – hearing sirens and emergency vehicles is an important warning to slow down and drive cautiously - you may be approaching an accident scene – or an emergency vehicle may be approaching to pass you

• Keep your eyes on the road and hands on the wheel – eating, looking for CDs, and digging for things in the floorboard or back seat can lead to trouble

• Get plenty of rest – make sure you’re well rested before getting behind the wheel, rotate driving duties with others in the car to avoid becoming too sleepy or distracted

• Take frequent breaks – stop, get out of the vehicle, and stretch your legs often

• Be courteous - because of the volume of vehicles on the road, you’re bound to run into a few traffic jams, be cut off, or be forced to stop short - remain calm and courteous - don’t let other drivers ruin your holiday

Travel safely and enjoy your Memorial Day weekend!

Sheriff Randy “Country” Seal