Ann Arbor police and fire departments issue safety reminders ahead of NCAA Final Four weekend

The City of Ann Arbor congratulates 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 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 at a crowded venue 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 a 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.

Call 911 for emergencies

As always, community members are urged to call 911 for emergencies. If you're not sure if it's an emergency, you should still call 911.  The nonemergency police number is 734-994-2911​.

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Media Contact: 

Steve Kilar, Communications Director, skilar@a2gov.org