For many teens and college students, spring break is an opportunity to take a short pause from academic and work demands, offering a chance to de-stress, relax and recharge.

What it isn’t, is an opportunity to make poor decisions, especially when a motor vehicle is involved. … Which is why the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency is poised to kick off its 5th annual “Think Smart Before You Start Spring Break” campaign — a statewide initiative reminding students that safety comes first.

A large part of the campaign involves ALEA increasing patrols and monitoring our state’s roadways with a close eye on safe travel. For the record, some of those “unsafe” travel choices include ignoring traffic laws, not wearing a seatbelt, speeding, driving distracted and driving while impaired — exactly the behaviors ALEA will be watching for.

To that end, the agency has issued a set of guidelines to ensure a safe spring break this year:

— Buckle Up for Safety: Don’t forget to click it before you hit the road on your way to the beach. Seat belts save lives, no matter how short the trip.

— Speeding Isn’t Worth the Risk: Keep the pedal to the speed limit—faster doesn’t mean better.

— Distracted Driving Destroys Lives: Put the phone down and focus on the road. Your text can wait, but your safety can’t.

— Impaired Driving is Never OK: Whether it’s alcohol or other substances that impair, don’t drive under the influence. Plan a safe ride home.

— Plan Ahead, Stay Safe: Have a designated driver or use a ride-share service when going out, and always let someone know where you’ll be.

— Know Your Limits at the Beach: Stay hydrated, swim with a buddy, and always follow lifeguard instructions. Check surf and swimming conditions and know the different flag warnings while visiting the beach.

ALEA urges everyone to take responsibility for their actions — both on the road and at the beach. With a little planning and smart choices, everyone can enjoy a fun and safe spring break.

And for those heading to the beaches, for the fourth year, ALEA will also conduct “Rescue Swimmer Detail” by using a helicopter to assist lifeguards in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. This initiative operates not only during spring break periods, but also when rip currents are especially strong throughout spring and summer. But responsible swimming begins with swimmers knowing the rules and their own limits.

Drive and swim safe, Alabama, and enjoy your spring break.