Highland Beach Police Department

08/07/2026

As students head back to school on Monday August 10, 2026, the Highland Beach Police Department reminds everyone to help keep our roads safe for children.

• Slow down.
• Watch for children crossing streets, especially near bus stops.
• Eliminate distractions and put your phone away while driving.
• Allow extra travel time during morning and afternoon school traffic.
• Be alert for crossing guards and follow their directions.
• Always yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
• Stop for school buses when required by law and never pass a stopped bus displaying its stop arm.

07/30/2026

One of the best ways to fight fraud is to talk about it. When you know scammers tactics, they’re easier to spot and avoid. The FTC has some facts about fraud to help you start the conversation. Read more!

One of the best ways to fight fraud is to talk about it. When you know scammers’ tactics, they’re easier to spot and avoid.

07/04/2026

As we celebrate our nation's independence, the Highland Beach Police Department wishes all of our residents and visitors a safe, happy, and enjoyable Fourth of July!

If your holiday plans include fireworks, please remember to celebrate responsibly. Florida law allows the use of consumer fireworks on July 4th, but safety should always come first. According to Florida law, consumer fireworks may be used during designated holidays, including Independence Day.

✅ Always follow manufacturer instructions
✅ Keep a bucket of water or hose nearby
✅ Never allow young children to handle fireworks
✅ Only use fireworks outdoors and away from homes, vehicles, and dry vegetation
✅ Never relight a malfunctioning firework
✅ Be considerate of your neighbors, pets, veterans, and those who may be sensitive to loud noises

Remember, impaired driving is never part of the celebration. If you're planning to drink, designate a sober driver or arrange for a safe ride home.

Let's work together to make this Independence Day safe, memorable, and enjoyable for everyone in our community.

From all of us at the Highland Beach Police Department, have a Happy and Safe Fourth of July! 🎇🚔

06/01/2026

🌪️ Hurricane Season Is Here! 🌴
As we start hurricane season, it’s a great time for all of us here in Florida to double‑check our plans and make sure we’re ready for whatever the weather brings.

✅ Build or Refresh Your Emergency Kit:
Water, non‑perishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, important documents, and supplies for pets.

🏠 Prepare Your Home:
Secure outdoor furniture, test your generator, trim trees, and review your insurance coverage.

📱 Stay Informed:
Sign up for local alerts, follow trusted weather updates, and keep your devices charged.

🚗 Know Your Evacuation Zone:
If you live in a coastal or flood‑prone area, review your evacuation routes now—don’t wait until a storm is approaching.

Let’s all stay safe, stay prepared, and look out for one another this season. ️

05/22/2026

To ensure boater safety, always maintain 360-degree awareness to avoid collisions, which are frequently caused by operator inattention. Keep your head on a swivel for other vessels, channel markers, and hidden obstacles. Actively monitor weather changes, designate a sober driver, and ensure passengers remain seated while in motion.

05/21/2026

Taking a NASBLA-approved boating safety course is essential. Choose an accredited, interactive course. Courses teach legal requirements, navigation rules, and emergency procedures. Carrying your education card, and practice skills like docking and handling to build confidence before heading out.

05/20/2026

Preparing for the unexpected while boating involves filing a float plan, checking weather forecasts, and carrying essential safety gear like life jackets, fire extinguishers, and sound-producing devices. Always designate an assistant skipper, monitor conditions for sudden changes, and use VHF Channel 16 for emergencies. VHF Channel 16 is the mandatory international distress, safety, and calling frequency in Florida (and nationwide), operating on a frequency of 156.8 MHz. It is monitored 24/7 by the U.S. Coast Guard and must be monitored by all vessels underway. Use it for emergencies (Mayday) or initial contact, then switch to a working channel.

05/19/2026

Never boat under the influence (BUI) of alcohol or drugs, as it is a leading factor in roughly one-third of all recreational boating fatalities. Sun, wind, noise, and vibration accelerate impairment, meaning drinkers become impaired faster on the water than on land. Always designate a sober operator, consume non-alcoholic beverages, and keep alcohol off the vessel.

05/18/2026

A float plan is a critical safety document shared with a trusted contact before boating, detailing your vessel, passengers, route, and expected return time. It significantly aids rescue efforts if you are overdue. For maximum safety, download a USCG float plan form to ensure all key details are documented and communicated.

05/17/2026

An Engine Cut-Off Switch (ECOS) is a vital safety device that automatically shuts down a boat's engine if the operator falls overboard or moves from the helm, preventing runaway vessels and propeller strikes. Connect the lanyard to your life jacket, belt loop, wrist, or thigh to ensure it pulls if you move. The lanyard should be short enough to activate the switch but long enough to allow for normal helm movement, usually 48 to 72 inches. Use wireless fob or wearable ECOS devices for more freedom of movement if traditional lanyards are too restrictive. Regularly verify that the ECOS mechanism works properly before heading out.