NORTH BEACH, Md. — The town of North Beach has announced new safety measures as it prepares to reinstate its popular summer First Friday event.
First Friday is a summer street festival that takes place along the North Beach Boardwalk and has been an annual tradition for years. After an incident at the May 1 First Friday event, the town decided to skip the June event to give time to prepare and review safety precautions with the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office and others.
According to a statement from the town, North Beach will “implement new and enhanced security protocols to improve public safety, prohibit unaccompanied minors and support emergency response capabilities to ensure the continued safety of residents, visitors, businesses, vendors and event staff.”
These enhanced safety protocols are meant to address attendance, improve crowd management, and strengthen emergency capabilities.
The town emphasized in its statement that these measures are meant to preserve the family-friendly atmosphere of the event. Additional security measures include:
- Increased law enforcement presence throughout the event area;
- Controlled access points;
- Wristbands;
- Minors younger than 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian;
- Unaccompanied minors will not be granted access;
- Backpacks prohibited; and
- Face coverings or masks that conceal an individual’s identity are prohibited except for medical-related masks.
Officials encourage attendees to arrive early and expect security screening and entry procedures at designated access points.
Anyone who observes suspicious activity, unattended items, unsafe behavior, or an emergency situation should immediately notify event staff or law enforcement personnel. Individuals who do not comply with event rules may be denied entry or asked to leave the event area.
“The safety of our residents, visitors, businesses and staff is our highest priority,” Mayor Michael “Mike” Benton said. “To help ensure a safe and welcoming environment for everyone, the town will implement the following additional safety measures:”
The town will continue evaluating security conditions, operational impacts and law enforcement recommendations throughout the event season.
Residents can check the latest updates and regulations online and follow North Beach on Facebook.
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