Gardai have urged those attending the St Patrick’s Day Parade in Dublin to use public transport among a number of other safety tips for the big day.
They have also advised people living outside the M50 to leave their car outside the motorway zone. Those living inside the M50 zone on the Southside are advised to leave their car outside the Grand Canal zone, while those living on the Northside are advised to leave their car outside the North Circular Road zone.
The parade route is accessible by public transport or walking from these areas. People are also urged to follow signage and all directions from stewards and gardai. They said: "There will be road closures and traffic restriction in Dublin City Centre from early on the morning of Friday, March 17. If you need to travel through Dublin City Centre on the morning of Friday, March 17, plan your journey in advance. Road closure and reopening will be staggered depending on the location."
Here are some of the other recommendations gardai have issued:
If you are attending any St. Patrick’s Day parade around the country:
• Plan your journey in advance.
• Select the area that you want to view the parade in advance of travelling.
• Arrive early.
• Keep children under close supervision. Where possible children should have phone numbers for their guardians in the event of accidental separation.
• Mind your personnel belongings.
Public Safety for all attending the St. Patrick’s Day Festival Parade:
• The policing priority is to facilitate a family-friendly event and environment in which citizens can enjoy the St. Patrick’s festivities and public realms.
• An Garda Síochána will have an extensive policing plan in place for all St. Patrick’s Day parades nationwide.
• The consumption of alcohol in public places is generally restricted by local authority bye laws in most local authority areas, including Dublin City Centre.
• An Garda Síochána will be enforcing these bye laws on the consumption of alcohol in public places.
Personal Safety Advice:
If you are socialising over this bank holiday festivity weekend PLAN your night out
• Drink alcohol responsibly
• Never drink and drive, no matter the time of the day/ night
• Plan your night out, tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back
• Don’t let your friends or family walk home alone, there is safety in numbers.
• If you have to, walk in well lit areas and make sure you can be seen by passing traffic (wear reflective gear/ carry a torch).
• Take care when carrying personal property (handbag, smart phone or tablet) in crowded areas; keep them in a safe location within view.
• Watch out for pickpockets in crowded areas; Keep handbags zipped and don’t put your wallet in your back pocket. In bars and restaurants take care about where you store coats and handbags.
• Park and lock your car in secure, well lit areas. Keep valuables including bags and coats hidden.
St Patrick's Festival commences today and runs through to Sunday, March 19. All details of the different events in relation to the festival can be found here.
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