The beautiful strand of Myrtle Beach South Carolina has long been known as a safe and welcoming place to visit, live and retire. And the safety of residents and visitors is a top priority.
The Myrtle Beach Police Department (MBPD) is one of the local law enforcement agencies leading the way with a firm commitment to public safety and progressive, innovative policing methods.
MBPD alone has more than 300 officers and staff, who not only serve the city’s 38,000-plus residents, but the daily visitors to the city. This includes special units that provide coverage to busy areas like Ocean Boulevard and downtown where officers are actively on patrol using a variety of different methods, including on bicycles, on-foot or using small vehicles known as GEM cars.
Traffic control and pedestrian safety is an especially important aspect to keeping high volume areas safe. At times, MBPD will close roads to vehicular traffic in order to help with congestion and increase safety for pedestrians.
In addition, the city has more than 1,000 surveillance cameras at major intersections and locations around the city, including high-volume areas, parks and public facilities. MBPD staff members monitor the cameras 24 hours a day in what the city calls “Real Time Crime Prevention.” Not only do the high-resolution cameras deter criminal behavior, but the have helped the department solve a number of crimes.
Assisting agencies such as the Horry County Police, Sherriff’s Department and S.C. Highway Patrol work with MBPD to conduct saturation patrols during high volume periods and at key locations. Plus, during peak season times, MBPD calls on additional law enforcement agents from across the state to help patrol the city. During certain times like major holidays, you’ll see a large presence of law enforcement officers across the Grand Strand.
Local governments, businesses and residents are all united in providing the Grand Strand’s public safety officers with the resources and technology they need to effectively contain and prevent crime, while ensuring Myrtle Beach remains a family-friendly community that welcomes everyone except criminals. Make no mistake about it, if you commit a criminal act, law enforcement officers will hold you accountable for your actions.
Holidays are some of the busiest times across the Grand Strand and when you’ll likely see increased policing efforts, traffic diversions and possibly restrictions in golf carts. Click below to learn more about these busy holidays.