Raleigh police urge summer travel safety as free safety series continues

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- As families across the Triangle hit the road for summer vacations and weekend trips, Raleigh police are urging residents to take extra precautions before traveling.

The Raleigh Police Department’s Community IMPACT and Engagement Division is hosting the city’s Summer Safety Series, a free weekly program running through Aug. 4 that focuses on seasonal safety topics.

This week’s session, led by Raleigh police and the Wake County Sheriff’s Office, focused on travel safety during one of the busiest times of the year. Topics included pre-trip vehicle checks, the dangers of leaving children or pets in hot cars and other tips to help families stay safe on the road.

The next session, set for Tuesday, June 30, will focus on Fourth of July safety. Officials will go over what’s legal, what’s not and how to celebrate safely at home, at Dix Park or elsewhere in Raleigh. They will also share tips to prevent fireworks-related injuries and fires.

Each session begins at 6:30 p.m. at the Millbrook Exchange Community Center on Spring Forest Road.

The series is part of Raleigh Police Chief Rico Boyce’s 2026 Summer Action Plan and is open to residents of all ages.

The program is a partnership between several local agencies, including Raleigh Police, Raleigh Fire, Wake County EMS, Raleigh Parks and Recreation, the Anne Gordon Center, Wake County Libraries, ICARE, the American Red Cross and Wake County Swim Smart.

City leaders say the goal is to give residents the tools and information they need to stay safe throughout the summer.

More information about upcoming sessions is available on the City of Raleigh’s website.