FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. (WSVN) – Officials in Fort Lauderdale are preparing for spring breakers to crowd their streets, but they\u2019re sharing a message: anyone visiting the area will have very clear rules to follow.<\/p>\n
During a Friday press conference, Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis said the city is eager to welcome out-of-towners looking to escape the frigid temperatures for spring break.<\/p>\n
\u201cI just looked at my phone this morning, and it\u2019s 38 degrees and raining in Manhattan. Why would you want to be there when you can be here in paradise, right?\u201d said Trantalis.<\/p>\n
Police and fire rescue officials joined Trantalis to emphasize they want spring breakers looking to enjoy warm weather and beaches to come to Fort Lauderdale for the week.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s really important that college kids know that Fort Lauderdale is putting out the welcome mat for you to come here and enjoy,\u201d said Trantalis.<\/p>\n
But he went on to make it clear that the warm paradise still has rules.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis is not just a place you come and think anything goes. We expect you to come here with great hopes \u2014 but also leave with your dignity. We want to make sure you have a good time, but a safe time,\u201d said Trantalis.<\/p>\n
Among the restrictions for spring breakers to keep in mind are no open containers on the beach. Alcohol, coolers, amplified music, and tents are also not allowed on the sands.<\/p>\n
\u201cViolation of these rules, these ordinances or laws, obviously, can result in arrest or notice to appear before a judge, and we don\u2019t want that to happen,\u201d said Fort Lauderdale Police Chief Bill Schultz. \u201cWe do have one ordinance change downtown \u2014 and that\u2019s not just for spring break, it\u2019s in general. It\u2019s the prohibition of open containers on the sidewalks downtown.\u201d<\/p>\n
Residents and spring breakers alike can also expect to see an increased police presence around the downtown and beach areas.<\/p>\n
Officials also offered safety advice for anyone planning to travel with ride-sharing apps.<\/p>\n
\u201cAlways use the share your trip feature on your ride share applications with your friends,\u201d said Schultz.<\/p>\n
As for anybody looking to party and drink alcohol, fire officials want everyone to be conscious of the fact that it can impair their movements and thinking, especially when operating vehicles or swimming in the ocean.<\/p>\n
\u201cDrinking before or during swimming, diving, or boating impairs balance, coordination, and judgment. If you\u2019re on the water, please stay sober,\u201d said Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue Chief Stephen Gollan.<\/p>\n
As for locals, the mayor wanted to reassure residents that officials will be working hard to minimize any inconveniences caused by the increased foot traffic.<\/p>\n
\u201cFor our residents and businesses, our soon-to-arrive guests, let me assure you that we are ready. We are ready to handle the traffic, the beach cleanup, manage the crowds, and make sure that public safety is maintained,\u201d said Trantalis.<\/p>\n