Gasparilla 2025: Bicycle safety patrols ready to roll into action
TAMPA, Fla. - Law enforcement officials will be protecting pirates and parade-goers by land, by air and by sea during Gasparilla 2025, and part of the safety plan includes bicycle patrols.
On Thursday, the Tampa Police Department held a press conference to introduce its Bicycle Operations and Response (BOAR) Unit and Tampa Fire Rescue's First Assessment Stabilization Team.
READ: Gasparilla 2025: Here’s what to know about the annual pirate parade
Both agencies tout the advantages the bicycle patrols bring when it comes to navigating large-scale crowds.
Why you should care:
According to TPD, police officers on bikes can swiftly navigate through the crowds to respond to incidents and maintain order.
TPD officials added that the elevated vantage point gives these officers a unique perspective, allowing them to spot potential trouble spots and keep a watchful eye over the festivities.
Tampa Fire Rescue paramedics on bicycles will ride alongside the officers and render aid to anyone who may be injured.
Fire officials said they will be carrying the same medical tools and devices they normally carry just on a smaller scale, so they could respond to cardiac events and overdoses, among other medical emergencies.
"But on top of that, we have other resources within our deployment that involve maritime units, as well as cart-based units, ambulances, as well as tents that are set up to receive ill or injured individuals," TFR Captain Ryan Bradford said.
By the numbers:
Gasparilla typically draws a crowd of about 300,000 people each year, and more than 500,000 people are expected to attend this year's parade.
In addition to having marine units, aviation units and foot patrols, TPD says it will have more than 100 bicycle units at Gasparilla 2025, while Tampa Fire Rescue says it will have about a dozen bicycle units on site.
Gasparilla security measures
Dig deeper:
Law enforcement agencies from around the state are joining forces for one of the biggest events in Tampa. TPD officials said officers were coming from as far as Orlando and Orange County to assist.
Tampa Mayor Jane Castor said there are about 20 law enforcement agencies that will be stationed at the Gasparilla festivities.
"The FBI has been successful in having a lot of these special events across the nation, having an increased "SER" rating, which is the ‘special event rating’ on the federal level," Castor said. "And what that boils down to is, we are able to receive more federal resources with the FBI. They're bringing in some technological approaches and apparatus, and then also, additional federal agents that that will be working."
The U.S. Coast Guard will also be assisting with parade security. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office will also have all hands on deck with enhanced drone and security measures.
"We brought in more vehicle barriers," Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister said. "We brought in more deputies, so more law enforcement officers on the water."
How to prepare for Gasparilla 2025
What you can do:
First responders say that it will be cooler during this year's Gasparilla than normal, so it's important for parade-goers to dress in layers. They also stressed the importance of staying hydrated. During Thursday's press conference, a first responder noted that when the weather is colder, some people tend to drink more alcohol, thinking it will keep them warm. He said that is not true and reiterated the importance of hydration.
What they're saying:
"This incredible teamwork between law enforcement and emergency medical services showcases Tampa's commitment to pro-active public safety. By combining the unique strengths of each bicycle unit, we are creating a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone," TPD stated in a press release.
The Source: This story was written with information provided by the Tampa Police Department.
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