Ann Arbor Police and Fire departments issue safety reminders ahead of NCAA Final Four weekend

The City of Ann Arbor is congratulating the University of Michigan men’s basketball team on reaching the NCAA Division I tournament Final Four! While Ann Arbor is not hosting tournament games, many in the community will be gathering locally to cheer on the Wolverines this weekend.

The City of Ann Arbor Police, Fire and Emergency Management teams will have additional personnel on duty to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for all. Fire inspectors will also be conducting occupancy inspections to prevent overcrowding.

The city encourages everyone to celebrate responsibly and to keep the following safety reminders in mind:

Know before you go

Planning to attend a watch party or head downtown? Stay informed about road and lane closures related to construction or events by visiting the City of Ann Arbor road and lane closure webpage. You can sign up for closure alerts in Ann Arbor and Washtenaw County traffic alerts, and view closures using the Waze app for real-time navigation updates.

Celebrate safely

If you see something, say something. Large crowds provide convenient cover for criminal behavior, so stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings. If you see something potentially dangerous, such as an object that was left behind, do not touch it. Move a safe distance away and report it. If you see someone taking pictures of entry/exit ways or acting strangely report the person right away.

Know where you are

It’s important to know where you are in case of an emergency. Emergency dispatchers won’t know your exact location unless you call from a landline. Dispatchers can send help more quickly with a precise street address, intersection, mile marker or well-known landmark. Be observant, know where you are, and if you have to, call 911; don’t hang up until advised by dispatch to do so.

Know how to get out

Nobody expects a fire to start in the restaurant, bar or house where they’re enjoying the big game. But it does happen, so it is important to identify exits and emergency exits when you arrive. Remember, if there is a fire, the door you came in may not be the safest — or quickest — exit route.

Plan ahead for a safe ride home

Before you attend any celebration, designate a sober driver before you go or schedule a ride service to get home safely.

City first responders emphasize their goals is to support a fun, safe environment for fans, visitors and the entire Ann Arbor community. Everyone’s cooperation is requested and appreciated as they work to ensure a safe and fun weekend. And lastly, the city shares an enthusiastic and hopeful, Go, Wolverines!

As always, community members are urged to report suspicious activity by calling 911 for emergencies or 734.994.2911 for non-emergencies. 

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Media Contact: 

Steve Kilar, Communications Director, skilar@a2gov.org